










COFYRIGlIY DEPOSIT. 








Peggy had dreamed — ^her dreams were coming true. 



PEGGY KIP 


A NOVEL 
BY 

Nina Miller Elliott 


Anthor of 

“HELEN BLAIR” 
“When the Heart Is Young” 

and 

“Every Woman’s Right” 


THOS. W, JACKSON PUBLISHING CO., CHICAGO 




COPYRIGHT, 1920. 

By 

THOa W. JACKSON PUBLISHING CO. 








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PEGGY KIPP 


CHAPTEE I 

Peggy Kip sat huddled with fear. She heard 
the nurse say, “Your Aunt Nellie is dead.” 
Tears that come quickly to childish eyes and de- 
note sorrow and grief, refused to flow. She was 
frightened at the strange emotion that had taken 
possession of her. A small, still voice she couldn ’t 
refuse to hear, kept whispering, “Life’s burning, 
somewhere, burning with slow running wines and 
warm-hearted roses^ — roses for you. The pass- 
ing of Aunt Nellie means freedom, happiness, 
life!” Clasping her hands tightly over her head, 
she leaned against the vines that covered the 
railing on the side porch where she was sitting, 
when the nurse came to inform her that her last 

7 


8 


PEGGY KIP 


known relative was no more. “Oh! I wonder 
what the future holds. Will I be free like other 
girls?” This question was asked over and over, 
sometimes in a whisper, then she almost screamed 
it aloud, listening for some answer. 

Peggy was scarcely five years old when the ter- 
rible yellow fever epidemic deprived her of both 
parents. She was sent to Kentucky to hier only 
near relative. Miss Nellie Camp, a maiden aunt 
of her father’s. 

Miss Camp was past forty years of age. 
She prided herself upon her blue blood and 
aristocratic ancestors. “The Beeches,” the anti- 
quated home of the Camps for generations, had 
finally come in 'direct line of inheritance to the 
aged spinster. She lived by code — there were no 
deviations from the set rules of household eco- 
nomics. She was all aflutter with excitement — ^her 
brain — (she had never been accused of having a 
heart) — awhirl with horror when a legal document 
came, announcing she was the one relative of the 
five-year-old daughter of her nephew — noted and 
remembered mostly for his extravagance and wild 
dissipation. 

A council was held with the family lawyer, in 
which it was decided to have the child brought at 
once from New Orleans. Noting the troubled 
look upon the hard wrinkled features of Miss 


9 


PEGGY KIP 

Camp, Judge Winston, thinking it advisable to 
say something to prepare the woman for this 
burden about to be thrust upon her, remarked 
jovially, “Well! Well! Miss Camp, there will be 
no financial difficulties attending the care and 
bringing up of the young lady, Donald Clark, 
the multi-millionaire sugar king, is the legal guar- 
dian of all the child’s inheritance, and he writes 
to advise me a substantial allowance will be sent 
monthly for all expenses incurred. ’ ’ 

Visibly pleased with the pecuniary develop- 
ment, (as the Camp fortune was known to be 
sadly depleted). Miss Camp softened at once. 
Visions of summer outings and pleasures of life, 
long denied, brought a smile to her hard, calculat- 
ing face. “0, Judge! I am perfectly willing to 
do my best for the poor child. I will try to take 
the place of her mother; bring her up as a Kip 
or Camp should be trained. There is no better 
blood than ours,” smoothing the freshly starched 
apron that covered the black silk dress, almost a 
uniform, so constantly was it worn. The silk was 
slick and shiny with age, with neatly darned places 
here and there. The dignified manner that Miss 
Camp assumed more sternly this morning than 
usual, gave real moment to her next question. 
Clearing her throat several times before the cold, 
cuttings words, echoing through the cheerless 


10 


PEGGY KIP 


rooms, harsh, cruel and almost inhuman to the 
kind-hearted man standing, hat in hand, ready to 
write Donald Clark to come with the child. He 
realized Miss Camp was speaking of her nephew, 
whose child was about to become her charge. 

“Judge Winston, I feel sure you know the his- 
tory of this child’s father, Gregory Kip? A 
spender, idler and ne’er-do-well; in fact, looked 
upon as the ‘black sheep’ in the family. For 
years the life he led grieved my sister beyond ex- 
pression. The final blow came when we learned 
he had married a Creole girl of New Orleans. He 
wrote several letters but they were returned un- 
opened. God in mercy took his mother after this 
heartbreaking episode. Now, Judge, please tell 
me truthfully — explain the real status of a Creole. 
Are they white or — ” the hesitating speech con- 
veyed the deep rooted antagonism that lurked in 
her heart for the warm southern blood mixed with 
that of the oldest French families, as proud of 
their lineage as any aristocratic snob of old fam- 
ily traditions. 

A joyous laugh that fairly rocked the stately 
portraits of generations of Kips and Camps, who 
seemed to join in the merriment, rang out upon 
the air. “Oh! Oh! I see. The real cause of 
your reluctance to ‘mother’ the babe. You are 
afraid of the blood that runs in her tiny veins. 


PEGGY KIP 


11 


You can erase all fear, rest assured. The word 
Creole stands ace high. The beauty, brains and 
aristocratic breeding of the French Creole are not 
to be questioned. Donald Clark explains that the 
child’s mother was Patricia Anuncia, the only 
child of a French wine merchant. At his death 
she inherited a goodly fortune. The child Peggy 
comes to you to be reared in the ancestral home. 
I feel you are fortunate, indeed, to have this bless- 
ing. All women are mothers at heart, if the real 
joy that comes of bringing children of your own 
into the world is denied you. It is by the grace 
of God that circumstances drop a babe right into 
your lap, or, I should say, into your heart. I 
must bid you good day. Miss Camp. I will send 
a letter to Mr. Clark at once. Ere long childish 
laughter will reverberate through these halls. 
Toys, dolls and story books will be found in most 
unexpected places. Miss Nellie, I venture you 
will he playing hide-and-seek about these ancient 
chairs. I tell you, there is nothing like baby 
hands to pull the heart strings and keep the old 
organ tuned up properly. You know, I can’t ex- 
plain it, hut I feel a pang of sorrow when I go into 
a home where there are no children. Men and 
women have missed the biggest thing in life when 
they have missed parenthood. I have five stal- 
wart hoys and two splendid girls, yet it seems 


12 


PEGGY KIP 


there is room for more. One does not think of 
resenting the rise of the tide or the rude breath of 
an ill wind. ’ ’ 

Miss Camp felt the rebuke so kindly given. 
Her selfishness and egotism had received a telling 
blow. She watched the good man passing along 
the brick walk that led to the gate, wondering how 
she could reconcile herself to the noise and dis- 
turbance that comes with young people. What 
personal changes would have to be undergone? 
Would her seasoned rules be disturbed or broken? 
From room to room she wandered, trying to make 
a choice for the intruder’s apartment. It must be 
far removed from her own. “I am sure I could 
never endure the noise.” Finally she decided 
upon two large connecting rooms. The heavy 
mahogany furniture, crimson velvet hangings over 
the windows, excluded both sunshine and air. A 
dusty, dingy odor pervaded the rooms. Gazing 
around at the antiques, she felt satisfied with her 
choice. Heavy carpets deadened the sound and 
added much to the musty atmosphere. Miss Camp 
congratulated herself that the rooms were a long 
way from the comfortable ones she occupied, open- 
ing out upon a porch leading to the flower gar- 
den, where the vines trailed along and wound 
about the old-fashioned pillars. With dignity 
and real self-approbation she closed the door, as- 



Dick was comparing the innocent young girl with the girls 
he had known, while the shy serious eyes of Peggy measured 
the young man. 


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PEGGY KIP 


13 


cending the stairs in stately satisfaction. She 
told the maid of all work to air the East rooms; 
they would be occupied in a fortnight. 

All was in readiness for the advent of Peggy 
Kip into the quiet, uneventful life of Miss Nellie 
Camp, so long undisturbed by the outside world. 
Missi Camp in her very best black silk, “Betsy 
Trotwood curls” carefully smoothed, laid with 
cork screw precision on either side of her color- 
less face. The lace head dress of the style worn 
by aristocratic spinsters for many years, not 
a wrinkle but what was in the proper place, she 
stood a monument to her family, watching the 
road leading to “The Beeches.” Her mind 
worked in many angles. What would the outcome 
be? How would it end? Closing her lips deter- 
minedly, feeling more the grave responsibility 
she was beginning to abhor. 

The carriage coming down the dusty road con- 
firmed the situation. “Peggy” had arrived. 
Sphynx-like Miss Camp stood, watching the three 
persons alight from the old-time vehicle that had 
done its noble duty for weddings and funerals; 
steadily meeting the two trains that crawled into 
the village each day, depositing the traveling 
salesmen safely in front of the lone hotel, and call- 
ing for them to take the next train. “Ole Mose,” 
the driver for more than a quarter of a century. 


14 


PEGGY KIP 


resented the drummers calling his “kerrige” a 
hack. 

A tall, gray-haired man assisted a bulky female, 
loaded with bags and rugs, leaning far into the 
open door. Miss Camp saw him lift a bundle of 
gold and brown gently to the pavement. With 
quick dancing steps, the child ran to the house, 
fairly bounding up the steps, her small dog held 
tight to her breast. 

With an ugly scowl, and mind quickly made up 
that the dog should not be housed within the walls 
of Camp, she went with dignity and great reserve 
to meet her niece. 

“You, I suppose, are my nephew’s daughter, 
Patricia Kip?” 

Childish fear and wonder were plainly visible 
in the child’s face. “I am Peggy Kip. I have 
come to live with my Daddy’s Aunt Nellie. 
Mammy J ane says she is my Aunt Nellie, too. Me 
and Chi and Mammy Jane, all of us has come to 
live here. Uncle Don is only bring us on the train, 
’cause we never did go far before.” 

At this announcement, Donald Clark was in time 
to corroborate the statement. Holding out his 
hand in true southern style, “How d’y do. Miss 
Camp? I have the honor to confide to you your 
precious charge. This,” placing his hand on the 
child’s golden hair, “is Peggy Kip, the only child 


PEGGY KIP 


15 


of my friend, Gregory Kip. I promised to see 
that she was placed in your care. ’ ’ 

A great reader of human nature, Donald Clark 
was deeply sorry that the will of Gregory Kip had 
expressly declared his daughter should be brought 
up by his maiden aunt until the age of 16, when 
she should be placed in a school selected by her 
legal guardian, Donald Clark. 

With no show of affection. Miss Camp invited 
them into the stately old library. The chairs were 
all stiff and uninviting. An air of forbidding 
formality pervaded the room. The ancient col- 
lection of volumes, fit to read or adorn the book 
cases, seemed to lift their brows in wonder, as the 
child, full of the warm, pulsating blood, climbed 
into a stately horse-hair chair, which had done 
ornamental duty for ages. 

Blackstone, Thackeray, Bulwer and Dickens sent 
their characters down from their stately perches 
to whisper to youth: “We are glad you are here. 
Maybe by and by you will steal us down sometimes, 
like your big-hearted daddy did. We are so tired 
of being locked behind these cold glass doors.” 

Outside, the garden was full of flowers, but in- 
side not a blossom to be seen. The heavy drap- 
eries of ages past were everywhere. How could 
this little southern plant flourish in this dismal 
gloom? Already Donald Clark saw the effect. 


16 


PEGGY KIP 


Peggy climbed down ^from the chair and came 
close, holding to him. 

With prim precision, Miss Camp urged them to 
be seated, while she showed the “colored woman” 
where to take the bags. 

“She is not a colored woman, she is my Mammy. 
She is to be with me all my life. She bringed my 
own mother np. Mother pressed ’pon me to do 
eberything Mammy wanted me to do, and I will, 
too.'” Eeleasing the hand she held, the child 
threw herself into the black arms that opened to 
receive her. 

“Yassum, yo’ is my honey chile. Nobody 
gwine to pester yon, nuther, lessen dey crawl ober 
mah daid body!” 

With a sigh of resignation. Miss Camp led the 
way to the East wing. At the door she motioned 
Mammy to enter, with Peggy still holding to her 
skirt. 

“These rooms are for Patricia Kip and her 
maid,” hesitating, ‘‘the dog cm be sent to the 
stable.” 

A temper held in check was urging to be let 
loose. “I sho’ would love jes’ to give dat ole 
maid a piece ob mah min e!” thought Mammy. 

Peggy, however, was not so thoughtful. The 
young, unrestrained nature burst forth. 


PEGGY KIP 


17 


“Chi was never sent to the stable at home; 
she is not going to your stable, neither! I will 
have her with me and Mammy Jane just like I 
always do !” stamping her foot as her temper rose. 
“You are a mean old Aunt Nellie ! Don ’t you tell 
me any more to send Chi to the stable!” Tears 
were flowing freely, and the sobbing child buried 
her head in the folds of Mammy’s dress. 

Miss Camp realized that the daughter of her 
scapegrace nephew was a personage of will, and 
to deal with her whims would require a degree of 
strategy and some patience. 

Leaving the room, she went down to close mat- 
ters with Donald Clark. After an hour spent in 
close conversation, with all the details of the 
bringing up of Peggy, Donald Clark bade good- 
bye to Miss Camp, assuring her of the generous 
allowance that would be paid quarterly. The only 
feeling awakened in the heart of the woman, hold- 
ing tightly to the yellow bank note for “immediate 
needs,” was one of ancient origin: “The Lord will 
provide.” There stirred no love for the mother- 
less child ; self was provided for. No need to fear 
the ringing of the door bell, the mail with bills 
long overdue. Miss Camp would once more take 
her place in the village social set, her pew in 
church, and reign as Camps before her had 
reigned. The old coupe would be renovated, the 


18 


PEGGY KIP 


yard man should do a double duty. He would be 
seated on the box as coachman. Miss Nellie Camp 
would uphold the aristocratic traditions of the 
Camps and Kips, whose ancestors crowded the 
Mayflower, 


CHAPTER II 


Peggy Kip smiled and caught her breath. Her 
mind was filled with dreams that seemed very 
close to reality. Gradually unrealized relief stole 
over her, because she was free! A subdued exul- 
tation tingled in her veins. She was alive with 
vague and visionary reveries. The few books she 
had read dealt with religion more than romance. 

So Peggy could not realize the riot of thought 
that clamored in her brain. She had never read 
“Castles of Spain,” “Dreams,” or any of the love 
romances of Shakespeare, but the romantic blood 
of the Creole mother and happy-go-lucky father 
coursed its way through her fast developing 
nature — crying for life and youth. 

The clock struck two. Mammy opened the door. 
Slowly she came into the room. A black dress 
hung over her arm; a solemn looking stiff black 
hat held gingerly. 

“Honey, I ’spects you’d better weah de’se moan- 
in’ things to de funeral. ’Cordin’ to my mine, I 
don’ see nuffin’ to moan ’bout. But she wuz yoh 
ant. Some ob de neighbors and quality is gath- 

19 


20 


PEGGY KIP 


erin Come on, honey chile, let Mammy help yer 
git dressed.” 

Peggy, with face flaming, then deadly white, 
shivered at sight of the prescribed mourning that 
had been purchased for her by some of the inter- 
ested friends. Drawing herself up to her full 
height, she replied: 

“Mammy, I refuse to wear that hideous black! 
I am not a hypocrite and I will not masquerade 
as the heartbroken niece of old Miss Camp! She 
didn’t love me; she hated my mother, and cared 
little for my father. I was sent to her — not be- 
cause she wanted to care for me did she let me 
remain. No! I was the means of keeping Camps’ 
surviving member in comfort — the only reason she 
allowed me to live here was because of the splendid 
allowance at the ‘ Commonwealth Bank. ’ No! No! 
take your dingy garments out of my sight ! Come 
for me at the funeral hour; don’t fear Mammy — 
(seeing the look of consternation upon the ol(P 
woman’s face) — “I will pay proper respect to my 
father’s relative. But, Mammy, respect requires 
no advertising of bereavement!” 

“My! My! What do ail dat chile? I neber 
did heah no sich talk — ’specially when relations 
demise ! I ’members when ole Miss Chase died — 
all de fambly what hadn’t spoke to her fer years 


PEGGY KIP 


21 


put crape to de groun’. Ha ! Ha ! Young folks do 
hab dey own notions dese days !” 

So with great disappointment the old woman 
laid away tbe mourning garments, mumbling to 
herself that it is “not de thing to fail in polite- 
ness to de daid.” 

Promptly at three Peggy Kip, the only relative, 
took her place in the parlor, near the casket that 
held the remains of “Miss Camp,” who seemed 
no colder in death than in life. The set, hard 
features gave the impression of sleep. 

As the young girl sat listening to the eulogy of 
good works, she could hardly hide the smile that 
played about her mouth. She wondered what 
were some of Aunt Nellie’s good deeds. S^ie tried 
to remember if there had ever been any real happy 
hours at “The Beeches.” Were there ever 
young people full of the joy of living? 

That which we desire most comes when we least 
expect it. Peggy’s slender fingers were toying 
with a rose. She picked the petals one at a time. 
Raising her eyes, she gazed across the sombre 
gray casket, guilelessly into the eyes of a young 
man. She returned his level, searching gaze. 
With quick, indrawn breath, quickly beating heart 
and fluttering eyelids, youth signalled youth — the 
beginning of the old, old story. 

Peggy had dreamed — ^her dreams were coming 


22 


PEGGY KIP 


tnie. She was lifted high above earthly things; 
she was filled with sacred awe. An aching throb, 
new to her, was in her breast. 

The room was stuffy, the buzzing of voices told 
Peggy the crowd was leaving. She was pushed 
along with the jostling throng — ^with them, but 
unseeing, only nursing the sweet pain that tugged 
in her heart. 

At the grave Peggy tried to listen to the last 
words of benediction. She heard the dull thud 
of clods that bring stem realization to waiting 
friends. She knew the sad rite was over. 

Turning from the grave, a voice broke into 
the silence. Judge Winston held out his hand. “I 
am anxious to introduce my grandson, Dick Wins- 
ton, of Richmond, Va. He will be with us for the 
summer,” he said. 

The two young people clasped hands. With the 
quiet, gracious manner of one bom and reared 
in gentle surroundings, Dick Winston smiled, say- 
ing: 

“I am sorry. Miss Kip, that our first meeting 
should be on^so sad an occasion. I am sure, how- 
ever, we will have many pleasant hours. My 
grandfather has told me much of you and ‘The 
Beeches.” I feel already that we are old friends. 
I am going to have a hard time calling you ‘Miss 
Kip.’ ” 


PEGGY KIP 


23 


‘ ‘ Tut ! Tut ! You young folks must be Dick and 
Peggy to each other,” Judge Winston laughingly 
said. “You two walk on. I will join you 
shortly.” 

The shy, serious eyes of the girl measured the 
young man. Tall, blonde, and splendidly built; 
broad shoulders that gave promise of a wonderful 
physique, an athlete in the moulding; clear, 
keen blue eyes that met Peggy’s brown ones with 
manly assurance. 

Yep, seems I know you pretty well. I remem- 
ber when all the village was in a state bordering 
on delirium over the advent of a Creole baby 
into Miss Camp’s quiet household. Gee! Girl, I 
was green with envy when I heard my granddad 
telling all about the wonderful boxes filled with 
toys, that came so often from the city in the South. 
We used to hang around “The Beeches,” doing 
our best to get a glimpse of the kid behind that 
fence. Poor old Miss Camp ! How she did bewail 
her fate, having her best room cluttered up with 
dolls, etc. ! Granddad used to laugh and say she 
certainly ought to be glad her brother’s child was 
a girl instead of a boy. Then she would have 
had something to think about. I guess he’s right, 
too — for I certainly keep ’em busy when I come 
here !” 


24 


PEGGY KIP 


Peggy listened attentively as the boy rattled on. 
This, the first youthful conversation she had ever 
indulged in, was flowing freely. Strange, she had 
no backward or hesitating impulse. A feeling of 
freedom stole over her as she modestly followed 
the natural call of youth. 

At the gate, she insisted that Dick come in and 
wait for the Judge, confidently assuming the head 
of the house. She instructed Mammy to open all 
windows and doors. Smilingly, “We will let the 
sunshine in — such sacrilege to Miss Camp’s car- 
pets and curtains!” she thought. Neighbors pass- 
ing by marveled at the audacity. Never before 
had the Axminster and plush been allowed the 
glory of a sun bath. Moth balls and camphor 
bags held court from season to season. Some- 
times a fire was kindled in the parlor to take the 
dampness out. 

We will pass quickly over the weeks that fol- 
lowed. Tracing a romance is apt to be a stale 
occupation, except to those who have a romance of 
their own. There are days when the thread is 
lost, seems biit a myth; then days when hopes are 
fulfilled far beyond all expectations; then comes 
doubt and despair. Looking back over the roman- 
tic episodes of life one marvels at the utter sim- 
plicity of what seemed a veritable labyrinth of 
emotions. 


PEGGY KIP 


25 


There were long walks through the woods, pic- 
nic lunches — Mammy always in evidence. She en- 
joyed the planning of lunches and dainty meals. 
The absence of Miss Camp’s cold presence told 
upon all the household. With a freedom of speech 
never before indulged in, she told the cook in a 
lofty manner, all about Miss Patricia. “Peggy’s 
Ma was de most beautiful young lady in de parish, 
and de belle ob de city. ’Taint nothin’ but rite 
dat Miss Peggy hab some pleasure. Anybody dat 
libed wid dat ole maid ten years, sho has got some- 
thin’ cornin’ ter ’em.” 

Of course, a young girl unchaperoned except by 
an old “Nigger Mammy” was discussed freely. 
The small talk of the village gossip — who drank 
her tea with a different family each day — enter- 
tained the old and young, but Peggy gave no heed 
to those about her. She had been denied com- 
panions of her own age. Miss Camp heard the 
lessons that should have been learned in school. 
Summer and winter, just the same, every day was 
school day. 

Miss Danby, the only music teacher in the vil- 
lage, came twice a week. The two hours’ prac- 
tice required each day, was the only pleasure 
Peggy knew. She had inherited her mother’s 
talent for music. 


26 


PEGGY KIP 


Seated in the cheerless old parlor, Peggy let her 
fingers move idly over the keys. The dreams she 
wove pealed forth in melody as she improvised 
one theme after another. 

Miss Danby came in a little early. Hearing the 
sweet strains, she quietly seated herself to listen. 
After an hour, she smilingly told Peggy : 

"Pom are going to be a great musician. What 
are you dreaming of, dear? I see in the strain 
you produce a dream.” 

Gazing into the very soul of the woman, this 
untrained child answered ‘of life — life I crave and 
life that is denied me — a world where people 
live!” 

Peggy was enjoying her days of freedom. She 
had never seen Donald Clark since the day he left 
her in the big stuffy house. She knew Miss Camp 
had received letters from him, and Christmas 
time always brought some remembrance from him. 
Now she was awaiting his verdict in regard to her 
future. How she would love to stay here, gather 
young girls around her! Oh! for Aladdin’s lamp 
to change her into an imperious lady — with those 
in waiting to do her bidding ! 

Peggy’s association with Dick had taught her 
much of the outside world. It was like fairy tales 
to hear about his college life — of boys and girls, 
of fashionable boarding schools where girls were 


PEGGY KIP 


27 


trained — girls with fathers and mothers who 
planned their futures; made plans and dreamed 
of their happiness when they were babes. “Who 
knows? Maybe Uncle Don will come for me,” 
she mused. 

Dick was having a wonderful glimpse into a 
human soul, he was comparing the dainty inno- 
cent young girl with the girls he had always 
known. Peggy did not suffer by the comparison — 
Cupid had a language of his own; it might he 
called a sign code. 

Each day saw the young couple, with Mammy 
near by, happily passing the fast flying hours — 
a girl’s mind knows no half measure. In the 
secret realms of her imagination there grew and 
multiplied fantastic fancies, extravagant and pas- 
sionate desires. Unstintedly she fed her craving 
for romance. She would catch herself weaving 
dreams of her future, always with Dick in the 
grand drama of life she huilded ; in fact, he seemed 
to be the greater part of the structure. 

Peggy listened attentively to Dick as he told of 
his years of study — of the years yet to be spent 
in foreign lands, in universities of note. She 
watched him, noting the flush of great pride that 
mantled his face as he declared he would come 
back to his own country with all his father’s hopes 
fulfilled — with honor and distinguished mention — 


28 


PEGGY KIP 


to establish himself in his chosen profession. The 
last expressed wish of his father should be car- 
ried out. Dr. Richard Winston, the only son of Dr. 
Thomas Winston, should “carry on.” Dick was 
the worthy son of a worthy sire — the two were real 
pals, and the father formed plans dating from the 
day of the boy’s birth. The mother kept con- 
stantly before her son the “wishes of your 
father.” 

Peggy was happy weaving her dreanas. Dick, 
her own, accomplished wonderful things. He over- 
came all obstacles — nothing seemed too big for him 
to achieve. They sat in the flower garden under- 
neath a honeysuckle vine. Quiet had fallen upon 
them, each busy with thoughts that brought smiles 
to their young faces. 

Mammy came clumsily down the path, calling: 

“Miss Peggy! Honey chile! Here is one ob 
dem dispatch letters — de forerunner ob trouble! 
I tole de boy to wait, but he say how Mr. Jidge 
Winston done read it and tole him to bring it right 
here to you!” 

Peggy took the yellow envelope gingerly, a thrill 
of loneliness new to her was rioting with feeling 
she wanted to understand. 

“Oh, Dick! It is from Uncle Don — ^he will be 


PEGGY KIP 


29 


here today — any minute now, for it says two 

0 ’clock ! ’ ’ 

“Splendid, Peg! I dreaded so to leave you 
here ! Now I know some agreeable arrangement 
will he made! You will leave this lonely old 
house; you will be sent to school with girls your 
own age. Let’s see, you are sixteen come this 
November? I will be in Europe two years, maybe 
longer. Then home, to hang out my shingle and 
wait for the ailing ones to claim my services.” 

Noting the shadow that had fallen over her, Dick 
grabbed Peggy ecstatically. “Cheer up ! Smile ! 
Smile a big smile! Now, now! Oh, you cry baby! 

1 will be back in time to lead the cotillion at the 
‘coming out’ party of the most beautiful debutante 
society will ever open her arms to ! I just feel it in 
my bones ! Little Peggy will be a grand success. 
You will turn the heads of the young men, and 
make some of the old stagers Idttenish. I bet I 
will be racked with jealousy!” Shaking the sob- 
bing girl: “What makes you cry, dear little girl, 
aren’t you happy?” 

With tears streaming down her cheeks, smiles 
trying to break through the clouds, with both tears 
and laughter, Peggy managed to stammer : 

‘ ‘ Oh, Dick ! It is such a long way to Europe ! ’ ’ 

Answering her gaily: “Not these days, dear. 
Boats cross in a very short time.” Then soberly. 


30 


PEGGY KIP 


“But, my dear, time nor distance will never 
change my love. I do love my Peg! Promise to 
wait for me.” 

Nestling in the strong arms that held her, she 
gladly gave the propaise. The hours flew; they 
look no notice of time. 

“When you come back from that terribly far off 
Europe, Dick, you will be such a grand doctor I 
fear you will not notice me. I wonder if the girls 
over there are very lovely. Do they ever marry 
American men?” 

“Well, hardly ever. Peg — ^not unless they have 
heaps of money. So there is no danger of any 
foreign maid angling for Yours Truly,” 

Tenderly kissing the girl, who beamed with hap- 
piness as she listened attentively to his pledges of 
faithfulness — believed in Dick Winston — let’s be 
fair — Dick believed in himself. 

A motor horn disturbed the stillness of the air, 

‘ ‘ Oh, Dick, the car has stopped at our gate ! I 
know it is Uncle Don” — ^hurriedly running to meet 
the man who clasped her in his arms, fairly lifting 
her from the ground. 

A real tinge of jealousy pervaded Dick’s whole 
being. He i-ealized there was another to share 
Peggy’s affections. No matter how fatherly, he 
jealously noted the tall, aristocratic, distinguished 
man, with his iron gray hair and splendid bear- 


PEGGY KIP 


31 


ing. The kisses he planted firmly upon Peggy’s 
red lips were fully returned. 

“Oh, Uncle Don! It is you! I am so glad, so 
glad!” 

“You haven’t changed a bit,” he said. Hold- 
ing the girl by both arms, he gazed lovingly at 
her. “What a big girl you are! The image of 
your beautiful mother. No doubt your looking 
glass whispers all kinds of wonderful things to 
you about soft brown eyes, reddish gold hair, 
combined with ‘peaches and cream’ complexion, 
and a cupid’s bow for a mouth filled with pearly 
teeth. Such a combination for a girl; such a 
chic little one — quite grown up!” 

Mammy Jane came hurriedly to welcome 
“Mai'se Don.” 

“Lordy, Lordy, Marse Don! We is sho proud 
to see you! How’s all dem niggers down yonder? 
Had’n been for dis chile I done lef heah long ago 
— yas siree! I sho like ter see ’em all once mo’ 
fo’Idies!” 

“Come here, Dick!” Peggy called, suddenly 
remembering the young man sitting in the sum- 
mer hofise. “Uncle Don, this is Dick, Judge 
Winston’s grandson. He is from Eichmond, 
Va.” 

The two shook hands cordially as southern 
gentlemen do. 


32 


PEGGY KIP 


“Yes, your grandfather has just told me that 
I would probably find you here,” said Mr. 
Clark. 

Dick was at ease with Donald Clark. The three 
chatted pleasantly for half an hour. Mammy 
bustled out on the porch with a Mint Julip for 
the gentlemen. 

“Marse Don,” she said, “dis de firs’ Julip I 
made since I come heer. Miss Camp was a pro- 
hibiter — she didn’t believe in none ob de good 
things what we ben used ter.” 

“Thank you. Mammy,” replied Donald, “you 
certainly haven’t forgotten how, anyway.” 

Dick rose to say good-bye, with a promise to 
come again soon. 

“Well, young man, you better make it very 
soon — wdthin twenty-four hours! I have come 
all the way from New Orleans to transplant this 
little blossom; in fact, her rooms are engaged, 
ready and waiting,” continued Donald. “Peggy 
is to be a pupil of Miss Amber’s school. A select 
and exclusive home for young girls. We are leav- 
ing here tomorrow evening. Judge Winston and 
Mammy Jane will attend to the closing of this 
castle. The ghosts of dead and gone Camps 
and Kips may stalk in all their glory for several 
years to come. I hardly think Peggy will choose 
to come back here to live when she has finished 


PEGGY KIP 


33 


school. Already New Orleans society is plan- 
ning activities to welcome the daughter of Patri- 
cia Anuncia — the most beautiful belle who was 
ever crowned queen of the Mardi Gras. The 
wealth left to her has now come to Peggy. 
I have judiciously invested the money so that 
the young lady will have no fear of the future.” 

A long look of pained joy passed between the 
two young people. Dick Winston had been wish- 
ing for the very thing. Now he could feel no 
gladness leaping in his blood. Peggy, with eyes 
sparkling with anticipation, could find no words 
to express herself. She was a mixture of sorrow 
and happiness. Anjnvay, she was to “be with 
girls of her own age — have friends — see things 
that Dick had told her of. Maybe opera, maybe 
theatre and dancing would be a part of Miss 
Amber’s education for young girls!” thought 
Peggy. 

Holding to Peggy’s hand, Dick asked in a voice 
shaky with boyish emotion: 

“May I see you tonight? I will go now. I 
know Mr. Clark will have much to talk to you 
about.” 

“I am sorry you are leaving, but come early 
this evening. I will be anxious to tell you all 
the plans Uncle Don has made. Oh, Dick, doesn’t 
it seem wonderful — ^the very things we wished for 


34 


PEGGY KIP 


— schools and everything is coming true! How 
little we know what will happen tomorrow. ’ ’ 

Peggy waved her hand as Dick went down the 
walk;. She turned to Mr. Clark. “Oh, Uncle 
Don, I just can’t believe it all!” 

Dick closing the gate, removed his hat, wiping 
the beads of perspiration from his forehead. 
With a wrinkled, drawn face, he whispered : 
“Peggy is going into the wide world that is so 
filled with lies — ^lies that walk as women, lies 
that walk as men !” In his face the look of some- 
thing that had been killed slowly and with infinite 
torture showed plainly, for the education stipu- 
lated in the present day for girls of wealth deals 
more with sex than the mothers and fathers who 
foot the exorbitant bills ever dream of. “New 
thought,” “Free Love” and most of the isms, 
originate in societies and frats composed of the 
idle rich — ^with nothing to think of but fads. 

Dick walked aimlessly through the village as 
the sun slowly settled in the west. He turned his 
face homeward, arriving just as the supper bell 
pealed out its inviting sound. For the first time 
since his arrival he failed to quicken his foot- 
steps. Somehow, the urge of his stomach did not 
call. All through the meal he listened to Judge 
Winston as he told fully the plans Donald Clark 
had made for Peggy’s future. 


PEGGY KIP 


35 


Overhead the clouds scudded, their edges out- 
lined dimly here and there by the light of the 
moon they veiled. Once as Peggy looked up- 
ward, thinking she felt a drop of rain, two dark 
cloud bulks drew apart and from the smoky panel 
between, a lonely star gleamed. Fascinated, 
she watched the heavens, gazing into the wonder 
of creation — the' clouds. She tried to picture her 
father and mother — wondering if they were look- 
ing down upon her. Somehow, she seemed 
nearer to them than ever. 

Peggy had sat quietly for more than an hour, 
listening attentively to Donald Clark read, in his 
soft, kindly voice, all their wishes for her future, 
so carefully planned when she was a mere baby. 
Oh ! how long ago it was ! All the questions ac- 
cumulated in her mind for years were now being 
answered. She could forgive them everthing — 
she saw plainly why it was that their desire was 
to have her pass her childhood with Aunt Nellie. 
There was no danger of her growing up a spoiled 
child, selfish or set in frivolous ways. 

A dark shadow fell across the ground. 

“Oh, Dick! How you startled me ! I was way 
off in my dreams. The clouds have juggled each 
other into every conceivable shape. Did you ever 
watch them all alone, wanting them to tell you 
everything?” 


36 


PEGGY KIP 


Seating himself with only a murmured reply, he 
placed one arm around the girl and took her hand, 
Peggy with an indrawn breath, seemed to realize 
the hour of parting was near. The intoxication 
of her magnetism crept into his blood. Peggy 
with eagerness held out her hands to life — their 
eyes met in an understanding that both felt; 
vague words seemed needless and di stiracting. 
Dick could only see visions of empty years — ^years 
without her — ^years stripped of interest — full of 
loneliness — desolation ! 


CHAPTER III 


Pour wonderful years passed quickly to Peggy 
—years filled with wonder and happiness. Miss 
Amber’s fashionable school, situated high above 
the Hudson, overlooking the Palisades, was the 
most exclusive of its kind. 

Peggy spent her first year adjusting herself to 
her new surroundings. She was now the real 
favorite with teachers and pupils. As the school 
days were drawing to a close, and great prepara- 
tion was being made for the exercises that pro- 
claimed them, young ladies — ready for the mar- 
ket. 

Peggy had learned that ever}'' girl in the class 
had a market value — some of them running into 
millions. As for herself, she neither knew nor 
eared. She loved to think of those days, nearly 
four years ago, when Donald Clark brought her 
here. 

The two weeks spent in New York, the wonder 
and amazement at the beautiful clothes bought 
as she went from shop to shop; clothes in such 
quantities that it baffled and awed the girl who 

37 


38 


PEGGY KIP 


had owned only the plainest of wearing apparel. 

“Oh! Uncle Don, it is splendid! I feel just 
as if I am in a lovely dream! Please don’t let 
me wake up!” 

A maid engaged to attend her, carefully mani- 
cured her nails, perfumed the hath, arranged the 
masses of golden hair in the latest fashion, smiled 
with delight at the dainty lingerie of cobwebby 
laces, slipped a fihny garment over Peggy’s 
shoulders. 

“Your frock, Mam’zelle, is beautiful. Your 
uncle, Meester Clark, he be very proud tonight. 
You meet his friends at dinner; he desires that 
you be lovely,” said the maid. 

The transformed Peggy gazed at herself in the 
long mirror. A mischiveous smile played around 
the cupid mouth as she wondered what Aunt 
Nellie would say if she could see her, with arms 
and neck really exposed to view. 

“Here, Miss, is something just came by mes- 
senger,” announced the maid. 

With trembling fingers she tore the wrapper. 
An oblong box of satin. She pressed the spring. 
A scream of delight followed. 

“Oh, Alice! See! Pearls!” 

A string of perfectly matched pearls lay upon 
the creamy satin lining of the jewel box. A 
card; 


PEGOY KIP 


39 


“To Peggy from Uncle Don — your first 
jewels.” 

Peggy was still admiring the gift, when Alice 
announced “Meester Clark.” All forgetful of 
the perishable finery, Peggy flew to him with hugs 
and kisses, and a suspicion of tears. She assured 
him over and over of her love, telling him many 
times what a wonderful uncle he was. 

Kissing her cheek, Donald said admiringly: 
“Come, come, take a peep in the glass at the 
prettiest young lady in New York. Miss Amber 
would be terribly shocked at the very thought of 
a young girl dining in a Broadway cafe, but to- 
night you are my best girl, and I think your old 
uncle can he trusted to chaperone you properly. 
Anyway, the real joy of living comes from the 
joy of giving, so ‘little shut-in Peg’ will sit with 
me tonight, and have her first thrill as she 
watches the procession of life — a procession that 
never ends. Those who drop out from one cause 
or another are missed only for a moment, then 
others, with more money, more beauty, or more 
influence, take the places left vacant, and the 
procession moves on” — laughing heartily — “so, 
little one, we must never think we are the whole 
show. To he a part of the procession gives more 
pleasure and happiness than to imagine it all 
stops when we drop out.” 


40 


PEGGY KIP 


“But, Uncle Don, I will never be satisfied just 
to be in the crowd — I want to lead.” 

Something of the real nature of the girl showed 
itself. Just what Donald Clark wanted to know. 
He had made his statements cautiously, wonder- 
ing what Peggy’s reply would be. 

Alice stood waiting with the rose colored wrap ; 
it added the last touch of splendor to the perfect 
costume. 

Handing the young girl into the waiting ccstV, 
Donald Clark seated himself in front of her, 
drinking in the charms with which nature had 
endowed her. 

“Alice has brought into perfect play every one 
of your best points,” Donald remarked, his criti- 
cal eye traveling from head to foot. 

This new life upon whose threshold two tiny 
feet were just stepping did not abash or frighten, 
but sent thrills of joy which added to the beauty 
and poise of the little southern beauty with warm 
Creole blood flowing in her veins, longing for the 
great adventure called life. 

“You are to be introduced to John Hazzard 
to night,” said Donald, “the most discussed 
bachelor in the millionaire class. He is greatly 
interested in you, my dear, chiefly for the reason 
that your mother preferred handsome ‘Gregg’ 
Kip to rich John Hazzard — anyway, that’s the 


PEGGY KIP 


41 


story. He sailed to foreign shores as soon as the 
engagement of Patricia Annuncia was announced, 
and has been true to his first and only love. He 
is proof against all designing mammas.” 

Peggy gazed out of the window, only half hear- 
ing the love story of one who was destined to 
play such an intimate part in her own life. 

The stream of people, the lights — just like fairy 
land! There was no unfitness in her attitude — 
she belonged to the grandeur. She at last was 
a part of the procession. 

In front of one of Broadway’s most exclusive 
restaurants the car drew up, under a gay striped 
awning. The liveried door man recognized 
“Mammon” at once. The generous tip held in the 
latter’s hand assured the door man that he was a 
good judge of generous patrons. 

Waiting inside was a small, dark, perfectly 
groomed New Yorker, eagerly looking at the 
couples who entered. He was quick to recognize 
Donald Clark — not failing to see Clark’s com- 
panion. He hurried over to them. 

Donald was the first to speak. “Hello Haz- 
zard, have you waited long? This is Peggy.” 

A wave of scarlet covered the girl ’s neck as the 
devouring eyes took in all her charms seemingly 
at one glance. She felt a timid aversion — a feel- 
ing she couldn’t analyze. The cold, clammy hand 


i2 


PEGGY KIP 


that held hers sent a chill to her heart. She was 
wishing that Uncle Don had not invited the “most 
discussed” bachelor to dine with them. 

Dinner was gone through with precision and 
satisfaction. Peggy had a healthy appetite, and 
enjoyed the tempting dishes set before her. She 
recognized many selections played by the orches- 
tra, calling the names. Even musical comedy 
artists who had made hits in certain songs, were 
seemingly familiar. 

John Hazzard listened to her surprisedly. 
Smoking his after-dinner cigar, in the easiest and 
most graceful poses known and acquired by men 
of the world, who pride themselves upon the nifty 
manner a fellow has “with the weed.” 

“My dear young lady,” he finally began, “you 
are quite up to now with all the latest in music. 
I understood from Clark that you had been hidden 
away in a gloomy, remote, old castle, waiting for 
the plumed knight to come to release you from 
your dismal prison — ‘run away with you’ as the 
story goes, where ‘they married and lived happily 
ever after.’ But you have dispelled the horrid 
thought by your up-to-dateness in the whirl of 
life. I am glad, indeed, that you have broken 
the chain that held you in the family vault. 

“You are much too glorious a creature to hide 
yourself! I can feel the thrill of youth once 


PEGGY KIP 


43 


more as I gaze into your eyes, so alike, and yet so 
unlike two brown eyes that have followed me 
through my own and foreign lands. Sitting there 
in your youthful beauty, the past seems only a 
dream — the years just a few weary days of wait- 
ing. I am with ‘Nezia,’ your mother, dear child, 
— my first and only love. You are the soul of 
‘Nezia’ in a new body. She loved life, sunshine 
and fiowers. How I adored her when she gently 
sipped the bubbles of champagne that were wink- 
ing at her from the brim of her glass — the mis- 
chief in her eyes that dared me to find fault ! 

“The first years of my life were devoted to her, 
in the vain hope of winning her love. The last 
years are dedicated to her beautiful memory. 
Today I am almost happy! I feel I am in the 
presence of ‘Nezia!’ I am yours to command, 
beautiful daughter of joy!” 

Peggy listened to the elegant, perfectly com- 
posed gentleman. His recital seemed much like 
a fairy-tale — told to a child who had asked for a 
story. If he had only begun, “Once upon a 
time” she would have known how the story ended, 
but here, in the great gilded palace, where thrills 
of ecstacy and bubbles of joyous laughter were 
crowding each other for expression, she couldn’t 
to save her soul, show how really interested she 
was in “the old, old, story.” 


44 


PEGGY KIP 


Finally she exclaimed: “Oh, Uncle Don! I 
am just mad to dance ! My feet are simply run- 
ning wild! Look at that couple — the girl in blue 
and silver — ^isn’t she wonderful? How perfectly 
she follows her partner! Isn’t she handsome? 
Say, Uncle Don, I believe he must be a profes- 
sional!” 

Unconsciously Peggy kept time to the music 
with her body. 

“Mr. Hazzard, this is the first time I ever saw 
ladies and gentlemen dance together,” she said. 
“Dick taught me to waltz, hut we didn’t have 
any music ; he whistled. My, but it was fun ! I 
wish Dick was here now ! You two old gentlemen 
would have a hard time keeping us from joining 
the dancers!” 

Noticing the surprise in Hazzard ’s eyes, 
blushes mounted quickly to Peggy’s cheeks, cov- 
ering her with confusion; especially because of 
the question he deliberately put to her. 

“Who is Dick? Who is DicM” 

“Why, Dick is Judge Winston’s grandson, who 
spends his summers in the village near where 
Aunt Nellie lived. Judge Winston and Aunt 
Nellie were friends, so Dick felt at home at ‘The 
Beeches.’ Then, laughing gayly, “Oh! how 
funny he thought I was — no friends, couldn’t 
dance — ^no one but an old maid aunt with all kinds 


PEGGY KIP 


45 


of strict ideas about bringing up girls, and my 
only companion a devoted black Mammy ! 

“After Aunt Nellie died, Dick came every day.” 

Both men were attentive listeners. Peggj^ told 
of days spent rambling through the woods, the 
pitiful little touches of happiness that had crept 
into her young life. 

Peggy continued: “Then Uncle Don came, 
bundled me up, took me away to be educated — to 
be made ready to blossom forth a real young 
lady, with all the airs and graces that money 
will buy from Miss Amber.” 

“That’s it, Peggy, ‘made ready’ is right. I 
am anxiously waiting the day when I can take you 
home — to New Orleans — and place you in your 
proper sphere — a leader!” It was the fond 
Uncle Donald who was speaking now. He con- 
tinued: “Until then, you will leave nothing un- 
done that adds to the charm of a finished young 
woman. Nature has given you a spledid founda- 
tion — only wealth and the correct use of it is to 
he reckoned with.” 

Casting wistful glances at the happy dancers 
as she followed the two distinguished-looking 
men from the restaurant to a waiting automobile, 
Peggy was whisked to a theatre to see her first 
play. “Oh, wonders and joys of life!” she 
thought f 


46 


PEGGY KIP 


A serious drama had heen selected. Peggy- 
lived the joys and thrills — the heartaches and sor- 
rows of the heroine ! She wept with no show of 
timidity. Not having arrived at the powder-puff 
stage, her nose was very red and her cheeks 
stained with traces of tears. At the last curtain 
she was visibly pleased that the -villain, (a good- 
lookin chap) had not really been killed, hut 
actually stepped out with the rest of the com- 
pany — smiling at the continued applause. 

Wending their way slowly through the crowd, 
she realized fully she was now a real part of the 
huge procession that beckons to rich and poor 
alike! All are created with the same desires — 
to see and to be seen. 

The clock in the tower chimed twelve as the 
maid who had waited patiently, anxious to hear 
“Mam’zelle’s” first impression of a night on 
Broadway, carefully assisted in the taking off of 
dainty garments. Alice saw a new light in 
Peggy’s eyes. 

“Oh, Alice! The joy of Imng is here! To- 
night I was only an outsider, merely a looker-on, 
guarded by two brave knights. Soon I will be 
one of the mad, gay throng!” 

When sleep finally claimed her, her dreams 
were filled with glorious scenes of splendor! She 
wore jewels and rich brocades! In the halls of 


PEGGY KIP 


47 


her ancestors she reigned supreme — happiness 
and laughter everywhere — she was a daughter 
of joy! 

Peggy’s dreams were disturbed by Alice softly 
announcing : 

“Meester Clark wishes you to join him for 
breakfas.t promptly at nine. It is now eight- 
thirty — one-half hour is not long to make oneself 
beautiful.” 

In the comer of the room stood a trunk, partly 
packed. Delicate lingerie and wearing apparel 
were scattered about, ready to be packed. ‘ ‘ Could 
it be possible that only a few days since she had 
worn the plain dresses and heavy undemear that 
now filled her with disgust ? Whole ages seemed 
to have rolled between. 

As she curled herself comfortably in the soft 
linen sheets, the pink silk coverlid lent a soft glow 
to the downy cheeks. Peggy quickened with in- 
terest. 

Alice stood with the bath robe. ‘ ‘ Come, Miss ! ’ ’ 

All this luxury Peggy accepted as her right. 
With smiles of satisfaction, she viewed the 
articles ready to add to her creature-comfort. 
Today would stand out through all her future — 
an event of great importance ! She would be es- 
tablished as one of Miss Amber’s pupils! 


48 


PEGGY KIP 


Peggy’s mind was absorbed with thoughts of 
the wonderful future — the years of preparation — 
then the entrance into the world of pleasure. 
“The worm tightly bound in its silken cocoon, 
spins and spins its way out of its prison, leaving 
behind the old garment — ^to burst into the sun- 
shine, splendid with colors, too beautiful, too 
delicate for artists to achieve! — The butterfly, in 
its great happiness, flies from flower to flower, 
sipping honey from every blossom!” So Peggy 
built and dreamed. The years allotted to Miss 
Amber’s training would pass, and she would cast 
otf all the ugly, rough, unpolished edges— a fin- 
ished product of Miss Amber’s reclaiming insti- 
tution ! 

Alice arranged the golden brown hair in the 
latest and most approved girlish fashion. A 
dainty morning frock, carefully selected, gave to 
the girl just the touch desired. 

“A dainty bit of Dresden china. Miss,” Alice 
remarked, as she viewed with satisfaction the 
young girl. 

The clock was striking nine. Peggy gave a 
smiling, assuring glance at herself in the mirror. 
Her eyes were bright with happiness and her 
cheeks were flushed with anticipation. She went 
to join Mr. Clark, who was waiting where he had 
full view of the elevator. 


PEGGY KIP 


49 


Donald Clark smiled his morning greeting. 

“My, a good beginning” — his watch in hand — 
“only five minutes late! How beautiful you 
are! No tell-tale wrinkles or droopy eyes gloat- 
ing over late hours ! You are like a rose leaf on 
the breast of dawn. See, young lady, you inspire 
your old uncle to poetry. So fresh and so young — 
really, you will make all these city girls jealous 
of your wonderful coloring — ‘peaches and 
cream!’ ” 

Peggy, pleased with these compliments, smiled 
delicious and tender thanks and linked her arm 
in her admirer’s. 

“I am so glad I please you. Uncle Don,” she 
whispered. 

Entering the dining room, admiring eyes fol- 
lowed them as the head waiter led them through 
aisles of fashionable patrons of New York’s most 
exclusive hotels. 

“I am delivering you to Miss Amber this morn- 
ing,” said Donald. “I am compelled to leave 
New York tonight.” 

“Oh, no ! I thought you were to be here a long 
time. When are you coming to see me ? I hardly 
know if I will be happy or satisfied without you! 
We have had such a wonderful time!” 

“My plans right now are rather indefinite. 
However, Hazzard has promised to take my place. 


60 


PEGGY KIP 


He win see that your monthly jaunts to the city 
are filled with the pleasure fit for a healthy young 
woman.” Noticing a shadow in the brown eyes, 
and a lack of enthusiasm at the prospect of so 
grand a cavalier, Donald continued : 

“My dear girl, you fail to appreciate the fact 
that you will be the most envied girl at Miss 
Amber’s, for John Hazzard has a hard time 
dodging match-making mothers.” 

After a hearty breakfast, Peggy bade Alice 
good-bye. Her bags were piled into the waiting 
automobile. 

Turning into Eiverside Drive the chauffeur 
sped along the river, then into the old post road. 
The glorious scenery impressed Peggy with the 
grandeur of nature. She leaned closer and closer 
to her guardian, longing to ask him dozens of 
questions that crowded her mind. Instead, she 
lapsed into silence — drinking in the hazy blue of 
the Palisades, the silvery Hudson in magnificent 
quiet, winding its way through the country. She 
was filled with wonder. 

For miles they rode on in silence, each busy 
with plans revolving in their minds. In the dis- 
tance could be seen, nestling in the peaks of the 
Palisades, the huge stone building with turrets 
and towers beaming in the sim. Therein were 
housed the future debutantes of New York’s most 


PEGGY KIP 


51 


exclusive society, looted over and carefully 
trained in minutest detail in all social require- 
ments. 

Miss Amber, the last of the old Knickerbocker 
Amber stock, had established this school. Birth 
had landed her in the lap of class, but the lack 
of funds had compelled her to look about for a 
dignified livelihood. These two compelling forces 
were the real foundation of this select school for 
young ladies. 

A liveried servant opened the massive door. 
Peggy, at a glance, took in the elegance of the 
furnishings. She could only marvel at the quiet 
beauty of the enormous drawing room. All 
thought of school vanished. This must be some 
gorgeous home. Surely school girls were not 
romping about in this place. 

Miss Amber, tall and stately, welcomed her 
warmly, but the quiet, calm dignity of her bear- 
ing gave Peggy her cue. She, too, had inherited 
an aristocratic bearing. The cordial hand-shake 
was not one moment too long — the smile showed 
only enough warmth to prove she was not overly 
pleased or surprised with her surroundings. 

A young woman appeared in the customary 
black dress, white cap and diminutive apron of a 
maid, employed only by exclusive and wealthy 
families. 


52 


PEGGY KIP 


“Show Miss Kip to her room,” began Miss 
Amber. Then to Peggy, “Your trunks have 
arrived. Miss Kip. Anna has seen that your 
wardrobe is properly attended to. Mr. Clark is 
lunching with us. Will you please change to a 
light house frock? You will meet the young 
ladies when you come down to luncheon. ’ ’ 

Peggy climbed the heavily carpeted stairs. 
She realized more fully than ever that her life 
was mapped out for her, and she wondered if the 
future did hold anything that she herself could 
choose, or was the eternal planning by superiors 
to go on forever? 

Miss Amber, watching the graceful curves of 
limb and body, smiled with eager anticipation 
for the compliments that were balm to her soul, 
whenever one of her pupils was fairly launched 
upon the social sea. Every move that the girl 
made convinced her that when Miss Kip of New 
Orleans made her initial how in the smart set, 
she herself would have another round of applause 
given her. She carried no advertisements in 
magazines or newspapers, the pupils spoke for 
themselves. Eager parents with ugly ducklings 
were anxious to pour their gold into the Amber 
coffers, only to he assured that a graceful en- 
trance could be made into ballroom, theatre, and 


PEGGY KIP 


53 


an artistocratic air maintained under all circum- 
stances. 

Peggy’s mind worked with speedy activity; the 
blood ran madly through her veins. A dainty 
frock of light bine — a soft, clinging material — 
only enhanced the beauty of her red-brown hair 
and dark eyes. She allowed the maid to select, 
without comment. 

With cold indifference she viewed the room, with 
its quiet elegance, gazing at herself in the long 
Cheval mirror. Something of the real change 
that had come over her made her smile. 

“I wonder what Dick would say?” she thought. 

The soft pealing of a Chinese gong sounded. 

“You are very smart, Miss. You will find the 
young ladies in the drawing room.” 

With a smile that at once won the heart of 
Anna, Peggy replied: 

“I am glad you think I will pass muster down- 
stairs. Anyway, here I go to face the cannon!” 

A little glance at herself in the mirrer, she sum- 
moned all her courage — ^hadn’t Dick told her of 
how girls were always jealous and catty? 

Miss Amber and Mr. Clark were chatting pleas- 
antly when Peggy joined them. Several young 
ladies were in the room. 

Miss Amber, taking Peggy’s arm, then an- 
nounced : 


54 


PEGGY KIP 


“Miss Kip, a new member of our household.” 

Each girl came forward, taking Peggy’s hand, 
giving their own name, and making some pleasant 
remark in regard to the happiness which most 
girls find at hand. 

One little brown-eyed girl, with a distinctive 
drawl, ventured upon real friendship. 

“Oh! I have been looking for you a long time,” 
she said. “A whole week! Your room is adjoin- 
ing mine ; there is a connecting door. Miss Amber 
said maybe we would be real friends, then we 
could open it. We are the only Southern girls 
here. I am from Eichmond, Virginia!” 

A flush of eager interest mantled Peggy’s face. 
How she wanted to ask : “Do you know Dick 
Winston?” And a hundred other intimate things, 
natural to young, unsophisticated girlhood, 
crowded her brain, but a glance at Miss Amber 
and the quiet dignity of the young ladies grace- 
fully lounging about the room, brought her at 
once to self-control, and all the fires of youth were 
quenched. 

Luncheon was served in state, happily for the 
new pupil, who felt every eye upon her. Miss 
Camp had been a stickler for manners, no matter 
how poor the meal, it was served quietly and with 
exact decorum. 

Peggy felt no embarrassment ; just enough con- 


PEGGY KIP 


55 


versation to keep dullness away, yet create no 
real mirth. 

One by one the young ladies were leaving the 
drawing room. Pteggy knew that Uncle Don was 
saying good-bye. Oh, to hide the tears and the 
sob that she felt was bursting her heart! 

.“Now, now, little one,” said Uncle Don, holding 
her in his strong arms, “I will come hack just as 
soon as I can. What a beautiful, cultivated Peggy 
I shall expect to find! Hazzard is going to take 
my place.” 

Forgetting all dignity she ran up the stairs to 
her own room, to let the tears flow freely, and to 
have a real good cry. Just as she stood at the 
door, Anna Carey, the Virginia girl, spied her. 

“Oh, here you are! IVe been listening for 
you. Come on into my room, Peggy! You must 
call me Ann; I am going to call you ‘Peg’! Oh, 
isn’t that the cutest nick-name? But for heaven’s 
sake don’t let old Amber hear you. We are not 
allowed to be familiar. ‘Young ladies, familiar- 
ity breeds contempt and is ordinary in the ex- 
treme,’ ” quoted Anne, in what Peggy recognized 
as a splendid impersonation of the “high and 
mighty” who trained young ladies in all things 
correct. 

Opening the door to her own room, Anne, with 


56 


PEGGY KIP 


true friendly hospitality, invited Peggy to come 
right in. 

“I know you’ll feel lonely at first,” she began. 
“I did for several days, but you will soon get 
used to it. You will be a machine, like the rest 
of us. We never do one thing that hasn’t been 
thoroughly tried and tested to see if it is entirely 
correct!” With a cheery laugh, Anne babbled 
on. 

‘‘You know. Peg, this is the school that assures 
one of a rich husband. I don’t care a bit for their 
old diploma — sit here and be real comfy” — punch- 
ing the pillows vigorously. I never expect to be 
on the market. I am already engaged to the 
sweetest, handsomest chap in the world. He 
hasn’t a million dollars, but he has family and 
prospects — a real profession. Oh, I will stay 
here the prescribed time — make my debut — ^liave 
a fling in society — ^but all the time I will be wait- 
ing for Dick to come back from Europe, covered 
with glory and medals. A full-fledged M. D. ! As 
‘Mrs. Dr. Richard Winston’ I think I can be sat- 
isfied. I shall neither worry nor care for these 
old middle-aged fossils who are looking for young 
wives, ready to pay any price for them!” 

A wave of emotion swept oyer Peggy, dulling 
her senses so that she lost part of what followed. 
When her mind cleared she hbard Anne Carey 


PEGGY KIP 


57 


prattling on about her romance, with a familiar 
face in 'a silver frame staring at her, 'which 
brought her to attention with almost military 
snap. She commented obligingly upon the boyish 
face (so dear to her) ; “such splendid eyes, won- 
derful physique” — all the things one is expected 
to say of a girl’s sweetheart! 

Peggy Kip was outwardly calm, but inwardly 
conscious of a rising, tense excitement. There was 
a huge lump in her breast, where a passionate 
heart had throbbed a few minutes before. In the 
twinkling of an eye her mind was made up. She 
would make the best of her years to be spent 
under the strict guidance of Miss Amber. 

Opening the door to leave Anne’s room, Peggy 
smiled a “Thank you, dear, come in to see me 
soon and often.” There was no sign that a shat- 
tered dream was tearing to pieces the heart and 
soul of Peggy Kip. 


CHAPTER IV 


Mrs. John Hazzard looked less than her twenty 
years as she stood before her mirror, putting the 
finishing touches to an elaborate toilet. Her 
maid, Marie, (brought from Paris) looked on in 
open admiration. The enviable position of per- 
sonal maid to the wealthy Mrs. John Hazzard was 
fully appreciated, for kindness and consideration 
were always two factors in the Hazzard home. 

“Oh, Madame!” you are wonderful! You said 
it was your great desire to look beautiful! See 
yourself, you must be pleased!” 

“Well, Marie, I think I’ll do,” answered Mrs. 
Hazzard. 

Peggy Hazzard wanted more than ever to be 
at her very best for this special occasion — the 
first dinner party given in her own home. She 
tried hard to hide the real excitement and thrills 
of anticipation she felt so keenly. 

More than a year ago, all the Four Hundred — 
the smart set of New York’s society — ^was startled 
and chagrined by receiving cards announcing 
the marriage of John Hazzard of New York City 
to Miss Patricia Kip of New Orleans, La. A wed- 

58 


PEGGY KIP 


59 


ding journey covering all the interesting places 
abroad, replete to the utmost in the social distinc- 
tion so freely lavished upon wealthy Americans, 
followed. Everywhere they went they were re- 
ceived royally. Hazzard was quite as well known 
in London and Paris as in his own New York. 
His young wife was a toast at many specially 
planned entertainments. 

Peggy Kip had been a social success. As queen 
of the carnival, all the South bowed to her beauty. 
After two furiously gay seasons she married John 
Hazzard, first because he wished it and Uncle Don 
approved heartily. She made no pretense of any 
wild passion, she followed strictly the rules of 
Miss Amber’s school. A marriage was a failure 
unless the dower was made in six or seven figures. 

Peggy enjoyed Hazzard ’s companionship, the 
attention gently given as they wandered through 
museum art galleries; and the box at the Metro- 
politan appealed to her the same as it does to any 
normal girl. 

Without warning or thought, Peggy had fallen 
into Hazzard ’s and Donald Clark’s pre-arranged 
plans. That Hazzard was thirty years older than 
the debutante seemed to matter not at all. With 
the crushing of her love for Dick, Peggy turned 
eagerly to the road leading to the goal — society! 

Two years of polishing seemed to fly. It was 


60 


PEGGY KIP 


all like a fairy tale. Beautiful clothes, associa- 
tion with only desirable people — ^music and art — 
it was all so simple, a real dream come true. Now 
this wonderful estate, gorgeous jewels and gowns. 
A retinue of trained servants not only to her bid- 
ding, but anticipating her desires. 

John Hazzard dreaded the day when his young 
wife would grow lonely — ^needing the companion- 
ship of youth — both men and women of her own 
age! When the glamor of jewels and gowns 
would fail to fill all the crevices in her nature! 
His heart contracted with fear. Being a student 
of human nature, he could not expect her to con- 
tent herself with the companionship of a man 
more than twice her own age — long ago wearied 
of the glitter and tinsel — realizing the real things 
in life! 

A shrug of his shoulders implied satisfaction 
with the plans now in their course of construction. 
Peggy was young and entitled to her natural 
heritage of gaiety with young friends of her own 
choosing. If he barred her from youth, she might 
in time grow to hate him. With these thoughts 
his heart was torn — ^he drew a sigh. But real sat- 
isfaction and content filled his mind. 

The invitations issued to beaux and belles, mar- 
ried and single, to a reception or house warming, 
had been eagerly accepted. All society was long- 


PEGGY KIP 


61 


ing to meet “Bachelor Hazzard’s young wife.” 

Peggy joined her husband in the library to 
await their dinner guests. Her loveliness filled 
his heart with passionate desire. He gave her 
the absolute devotion that for years he had poured 
upon the shrine erected to her mother. She ac- 
cepted all — no tell-tale blushes died her cheek, no 
burning heart throbs with longing to be held close 
to his breast and linger in the protecting arms 
anxiously waiting and fairly aching to hold her. 

Hungrily he gazed upon her, stifling the jealous 
pride he felt in the ownership of such beauty, 
whispering to himself, “The woman God made 
and finished for me!” 

“My dear,” he whispered to her, “I am very 
proud of you tonight. Come, let’s walk through 
tlie rooms” — trying hard to hide the emotion in 
his voice. 

The marvelous Hazzard jewels sparkled upon 
her breast, sending flashes of fiery gleams, witli 
the rise and fall of her bosom. Placing an arm 
about her, with a quick kiss, he said: 

“You, dear, are the most glorious jewel of all, 
and a fit setting for the munificence I have en- 
deavored to build.” 

Arm in arm they walked through the spacious 
halls. The ball room in rose and gold, with its 
highly polished floor, glittering chandeliers 


62 


PEGGY KIP 


brought from Rome, where, in an ancient castle 
they had lent their beauty for generations to 
knights and ladies in their stately tread. Clasp- 
ing her hands in childish delight, Peggy ex- 
claimed : 

“Oh, isn’t it splendid! I have never seen it 
lighted so brilliantly! My dear, what a wizard 
you are to plan all this! Oh, it is fairy land, a 
real dreamland!” 

Hazzard’s pleased smile beamed upon Peggy. 

“So you like it, dear? You have given me a 
happy idea — we will call it ‘Dreamland.’ I have 
been trying to find a name, but I wanted my little 
Peg to name her home ! Things deep in our hearts 
come forth unsolicited — nature is compelling, so, 
in an unguarded moment you have named your 
home!” continued the fond husband. “ ‘Dream- 
land’ is yours entirely — the papers are in the 
library — ^my gift to the fairest woman and, I hope, 
to the happiest wife, a man can desire!” 

Standing alone in this dazzling light, these two, 
the crisis of life for one, the beginning for the 
other! Instinctively, Peggy leaned toward her 
husband to express the joy and thanks that filled 
her soul. Forgetful of tulle and laces, John Haz- 
zard crushed the girl madly to his bosom. There 
are moments in life when heart and brain are in- 
capable of receiving another bruise. So it was 


PEGGY KIP 


63 


with this man who feared for his happiness. All 
the self-control he thought was mastered, gave 
way. 

“Oh, love me, Peggy, love me!” 

John Hazzard’s eyes held the quality that drew 
the truth out of men. As the sun demands water 
of the earth, gazing into her soft, deep eyes, he 
searched her soul. No fluttering eyelids, no deep- 
ening blushes answered him. The smile of ap- 
proval with a note that assured him of the genu- 
ine pleasure she felt in all her surroundings. 

“Why of course I love you,” answered Peggy. 
“I love you and Uncle Don more than I can ever 
tell you. Aren’t you disappointed that he isn’t 
here tonight?” 

The light died out of Hazzard’s eyes. 

“Yes, dear, it is too bad,” he replied, “but you 
must not think of it. Enjoy your first ‘at home.’ 
‘Dreamland’ must have no shadows. Let’s go to 
the reception room ; it is now time that our guests 
should be arriving.” 

Walking by the side of his young and beautiful 
wife, every muscle tense, Hazzard’s heart whis- 
pered: “I have nothing but money to offer; I 
have bought youth! 

Peggy was in a world, charming, exacting and 
vital, where things seemed to work out right. She 
looked at the world squarely, with warm, brown 


64 


PEGGY KIP 


eyes, thick lashed and at times full of dreams — 
but always hiding something as subtle and un- 
analyzable as Mona Lisa’s smile, since the day 
she had listened to Anne Carey tell of her en- 
gagement to Dick Winston, and had mastered her 
rebellion. Since then she had built no castles of 
love — only strict adherence to the set rules that 
Miss Amber laid doAvn. Every idea for social 
advancement was studied. Whenever she thought 
of those few wonderful carefree days, with only 
Dick and Mammy Jane, all tenderness vanished 
from her flowerlike mouth, and the smile that 
rested on her cheeks held unmitigated scorn — how 
she had given her heart and made vows to herself 
that Dick Winston should be proud of the little 
country girl whose love he had won ! 

Catching a glimpse of herself in the mirrored 
wall, a feeling of pride filled her. “Oh, that 
some day I may meet him!” 

With that thought, Peggy’s head reared in 
queenly state — living over again those horrible 
first days in Miss Ainber’s school, learning to 
master her soul, making herself over, from a 
trusting, worshipping girl, into a heartless, cool, 
calculating woman, demanding and gracefully re- 
ceiving. 

The sound of streams of cars rounding the grav- 
eled drive, the slam of crested doors as the many 


PEGGY KIP 


65 


guests arrived, brought Peggy to the eventful 
occasion she had long awaited. Many disap- 
pointed match-making mammas were anxiously 
and inipatiently longing to meet the mistress of 
John Hazzard’s millions, wondering if it were 
really true he had succumbed to the fascinating 
charms of a child, after successfully dodging long- 
seasoned belles and grasping debntantes for more 
than thirty years. 

Standing at the foot of the marble stairs, John 
Ilazzard, with pride and unusual dignity, intro- 
duced his wife to the set in which he had reigned. 
“Bachelor Hazzard,” the sought-after by design- 
ing men and women who had a social ax to grind. 
Peggy smiled encouragingly at all the pretty but 
meaningless speeches of the climbers, the para- 
sites and securely placed society clan. Hazzard 
listened to the quick repartee in which she in- 
dulged with some well-seasoned and blase club 
man, inveigled by a restless curiosity to accept 
just one more at home invitation. 

Hazzard knew Peggy was a success — her 
beauty and dignity towered above all those who 
were smiling their appreciation of his magnificent 
fortune coupled with her own. She was or- 
dained to be the leader in the exclusive wealthy 
set that he himself had ruled ! Even now a dread 
of the duties that would take much time, leading 


66 


PEGGY KIP 


her directly into the younger set, overtook Tiim. 

Hazzard was jealously watching his wife as she 
danced with one of her guests, intent upon their 
beauty and grace, her whole body seeming in per- 
fect rhythm with the sensuous Hawaiian waltz ! 

‘ ‘ J ealous already, J ohn ? ” A voice at his elbow 
startled him. ‘ ‘ Good, the flashlight for the Sunday 
papers has been taken; more than one of the 
deserted maids and mammas will be prophesy- 
ing trouble. No wonder you are following a par- 
ticular couple with such greenish eyes ! I think 
this is their fourth dance! Cheer up, old chap! 
Harvey is harmless ; his dancing is the one thing 
he has to make him a desirable guest — such a 
wonderful help to his hostess, accommodating, 
and so forth!” 

Forcing a laugh he was far from feeling, Haz- 
zard replied: 

“Tut, tut, Amelia, you mistake my enraptured 
and anxious gaze! I am filled with genuine ad- 
miration for my matrimonial prize, appreciating 
fully her grace as she follows her partner in his 
splendid steps. No, I hardly think I need pay 
Harvey the compliment of jealousy. Don’t they 
dance wonderfully together? Peggj’' is anxious 
to give a series of dances. I was just thinking 
it would be a good idea to have Harvey take 
charge of them; he thoroughly understands all 


PEGGY KIP 


67 


that kind of thing. Nice chap ! I will he pleased 
to add to his financial hold upon us. There are 
leaders in every business — why not the business 
of entertainment? 

The dance ended. Peggy discovered her hus- 
band and Amelia Wright. She brought her part- 
ner toward them, fiushing and smiling. 

“Oh, Mr. Harvey is a wonderful dancer, seems 
a pity to dance with anyone else. Miss Wright, 
you must have a dance with him — the next one — 
Mr. Harvey?” 

“With pleasure, Mrs. Hazzard,” replied 
Harvey. 

Amelia Wright flushed with joy. At last the 
great desire to dance with the handsome Paul 
Harvey would be gratified! She was eager for 
the music to begin. 

“Come, dear,” said Peggy to her husband, 
“let’s go over to the library. There are some 
who are not dancing. You must not forget to 
come for another dance, Mr. Harvey,” Peggy 
smilingly remarked, as she placed her hand upon 
her husband’s arm, moving gracefully across the 
ball room floor. 

“Too bad John is so much older than his wife — 
May and December — old age and youth seldom 
find happiness,” commented Miss Wright. Con- 
tinuing, “There can be no real companionship 


68 


PEGGY KIP 


in such a union — sooner or later trouble is sure 
to come.” 

Harvey listened to his unattractive spinster, 
with years of husband-hunting to her credit, dis- 
coursing upon men and women, their relations, 
and so on. It was with a feeling of relief that 
he led her out on the floor, whirling in a waltz, with 
no desire to hold her closer than propriety ad- 
mitted — a duty to his hostess, pure and simple. 
As the soft strains of music floated through the 
room, Paul Harvey kept perfect step, wondering 
at what age women (especially catty ones) were 
too old to dance. 

The sun was peeping from its hiding place, 
sending pink and yellow tints upon the waters 
of the Sound as the last lingering guests made 
good-bye speeches. Peggy Kip Hazzard was suc- 
cessfully launched! There was no longer any 
doubt as to the place she would occupy. Leaders 
in society vied with each other — entertainments 
on the most lavish scale were being planned, 
each one trying to introduce new features — mak- 
ing their particular affair more wonderful than 
the last. 

The splendor of Peggy’s jewels, the gorgeous- 
ness of her gowns and her exquisite beauty were 
favorite topics of conversation wherever the fem- 
inine worshipers of society gathered. Over tea 


PEGGY KIP 


69 


cups, daintly handled, many insinuating prophe- 
sying eyebrows lifted in jealous, sly and malicious 
envy — giving out opinions they lacked the courage 
to make in words. 

Weeks and months of mad gaiety sped along 
without a break in plans carefully made for the 
happiness of John Hazzard’s young wife. 
“Dreamland” was fulfilling the desire and name. 
The place was never free of guests — parasites of 
society, both male and female were losing no 
possible chance to cultivate the Hazzards’ invita- 
tions, carefully maneuvering until there seemed 
one continuous house party. 

John Hazzard tried hard not to show how bored 
he grew. Peggy revelled in the excitement. 

“Town Talk” gave much space to the gay do- 
ings of a “certain set,” openly hinting at a new 
scandal that would soon burst upon the public. 
A new sensation was the one idea. The mistress 
of “Dreamland” was so busy planning entertain- 
ment for her guests that sometimes several days 
would pass without even a chat with her hus- 
band. Sometimes his knock at her door caused 
her to ask almost irritably: “Who’s there? Oh, 
John dear, not tonight. I will see you in the 
morning, I am so tired!” 

At such times, the dull gray of Hazzard’s face 
deepened. With aching heart and dark forehod- 


70 


PEGGY KIP 


ing he would turn away to the companionship of 
a lonely man’s best friend — a good cigar! He 
watched the smoke wreathe itself into rings, blow- 
ing them carefully, trying to build a future. He 
refused to see any clouds. His reasoning power 
was ready at all times to assert that Peggy was 
only a child — a daughter of joy. “Let her have 
her toys — ere long she will grow up; all too soon 
the serious business of life will overtake her,” 
is the way he reasoned. 

Off into the past Hazzard allowed himself to 
trail, with thoughts and dreams of “Nezia.” 
How he had loved the creole beauty — her warm, 
passionate nature urged every nerve of his body 
to action! 

The dull surge of waves washing upon the shore 
brought him back to the present, and with a deep 
sigh, he threw the cigar from him. 

Hazzard ’s thoughts carried him on. “Had the 
handsome young Kip kept out of the race for 
Nezia ’s hand, she would have been my wife! 
Then you. Peg, would have me for a father instead 
of a” — laughing aloud — “no wonder I am always 
placed with ‘Uncle Don’! ” 

Gazing steadily at a life-size portrait of Peggy 
— hung only a few days ago — Hazzard came to a 
full understanding of himself and of Pegg3^ He 
must submit to the inevitable ! He knew now that 


PEGGY KIP 


71 


sooner or later Ms beautiful wife would realize 
the crime committed against her! He saw the 
overwhelming gates of agony leading to a lurid 
hell opening to him ! Old age, alone ! His books 
would fail him ! Only in dreams could he possess 
P^ggy ! Dreams or reality — it is all one now, for 
all things wonderful that befall us instantly be- 
come dreams when they are past! 

As yet, no mad jealousy had entered the heart 
of John Hazzard — he trusted Peggy. With all 
the admiration showered upon her, he had found 
no one man to whom she leaned, or for whom she 
displayed any anxious anticipation of his coming. 
In fact, many times she seemed bored with it all, 
causing him much anxiety. Her restless, nervous 
condition, her tired brown eyes, her shyness when- 
ever he chanced to be alone with her, made his 
heart ache with dull Jonging. 


CHAPTER V 


'‘Is there anything more, Ma’am?” Marie asked, 
as she stood waiting at the door. 

“My crepe shawl, Marie, then you may go,” 
replied Peggy. 

The balcony leading oil from her boudoir had 
become a place of retreat to Peggy, when the night 
was still and quiet reigned all through the house. 
Here on the balcony she sat, watching the boats 
on the Sound. 

The brilliant crescent moon suddenly emerged 
from a bank of purple clouds. Peggy gazed in 
admiration; her smile had more pathos. Some- 
how, she seemed suddenly to realize that she had 
developed into a woman. 

Two years of married life had passed quickly — 
yet the big thing that had seemed so near, and 
easily attained, was even now no nearer! Each 
day Peggy saw the soul of some one bared — some 
creature hungering for the unattainable; smiling 
and smirking for recognition ; staking their all — 
even honor — ^in vain attempts to lead — ^not simply 
to be in the procession, but to lead! 

Peggy knew that John Hazzard loved her. Try 

72 


PEGGY KIP 


73 


as she would, she could not fail to hide the aver- 
sion she felt when he fondled her — ^bestowing 
burning kisses upon her unresponsive lips. She 
knew now that she had been cheated out of her 
romance ! 

Tonight Peggy sat looking far out upon the 
Sound. The lights of New York twinkled and 
beckoned compellingly and invitingly, hinting of 
adventure. The plans she and Dick had made so 
long ago mshed upon her brain. “How they two 
would enjoy exploring all the beautiful places of 
interest!” she thought, “art galleries, museums — 
listening to the music that both loved! What a 
prank fate had played on them both I” 

In Peggj^’s eyes were tears. Her full, vivid 
lips curved to a smile. Tender memories never 
die. So she lived over and over the hours spent 
with her first and only sweetheart. 

The breeze from the Sound was cool. Peggy 
drew the soft wool shawl close about her. The 
light of a cigar was seen through the trees. Lean- 
ing far forward, Peggy tried to make out the dim 
forms moving among the shadows. Surely John 
was in bed,” she thought. “Who could it be 
there in the garden?” 

Peggy strained her eyes, watching anxiously. 
A filmy form glided down the willow path toward 
the boathouse. Distinctly she saw a man and 


74 


PEGGY KIP 


woman in close embrace — with arms entwined, 
walking slowly into the deep shaded path. 

Peggy became reminiscent. Could it be that 
only four years had gone since she had walked in 
the moonlight, and listened to the old, old story, 
so easily told? It seemed a life time !” 

Like the song of lost birds, or thei breath of a 
passionate dream half forgotten, or the warmth 
of arms forever withdrawn, Peggy dreamed sadly 
on. She racked her memory, trying to bring back 
the vanished joy, but all in vain. ‘ ‘ Happy, happy 
days!” she thought. 

The chimes of the clock awakened Peggy — 
brought her back to the present. All the blood in 
her mounted to her throbbing brain, leaving her 
body a congealing image of ice. With slow, drag- 
ging steps she went into her bedroom, dropping 
the handsome negligee where she stood, threw her- 
self upon her bed, where she slept. The dark 
lashes were wet with unshed tears. 

The couple upon the beach plighted their troth, 
and planned a cottage near “Dreamland,” for 
Marie, the maid, and Thomas, the butler, waited 
anxiously each night for guests to depart so that, 
down close to the water’s edge, they could whisper 
‘ ‘ the sweetest story ever told. ’ ’ 

With the sun streaming into her room, Peggy 
opened her eyes to a new day. Years seemed to 


PEGGY KIP 


75 


have been added to her soul. She determined to 
take up the real business of life. She pondered: 
“Wasn’t there something more than the lightness 
and frivolous revels that she knew now could never 
satisfy or fill her soul?” 

“Marie!” 

“Yes, Madame,” the maid answered, from the 
depths of the closet where she stood, choosing a 
frock for madame, who, for weeks, had taken little 
interest in the beconiingness of her gowns. 

“How many are down for breakfast?” 

“Only Mr. Harvey and Miss Wright,” answered 
Marie. ‘ ‘ They came down quite early. Now they 
are out on the Sound in your new boat. Oh, me ! 
Oh, my! I heard Miss Wright laying a wager 
that they could beat Mr. Hazzard with ‘Peggy 
Kip’ — and off they went! Thomas and I watched 
them start. They were headed for the Yacht Club. 
Thomas says he thinks you ought to he the one 
to take your boat out first!” 

“Never mind, Marie, that’s all right; guests 
first. By the way, have you attended Miss Wright 
the past week? She likes you. Arline seems to 
misunderstand her.” 

“Yes, Madame,” replied Marie, “I do my best 
to be with her as often as possible. I have both 
ladies in the Rose suite. Oh! they are lovely 
piaids who have seen long service in the best fam- 


76 


PEGGY KIP 


Hies, and are good judges of character!” 

Peggy listened to Marie detailing little incidents 
of those she had served. 

“I tell you, Ma’am, Miss Wright is very ex- 
acting,” continued Marie. “She requires more 
time than any three of your guests and you thrown 
in!” 

“Oh, well, Marie,” said Peggy, turning herself 
gracefully out of bed, “we shall soon close this 
place, and there will be very few house guests in 
the city.” 

A quick plunge and shower brought the healthy 
glow to the velvet skin — the glow so many women 
yearn for. 

“Marie, it is your turn now.” 

Seating herself in front of the perfectly ap- 
pointed dressing table, Peggy smiled at herself 
as she looked into the long mirror. The frock 
Marie had chosen was perfect — ^just what should 
be worn on a glorious September morning — a 
creamy wool material with light blue facings; a 
little low in the neck, with short sleeves to the 
elbow that added charm to the white, perfectly- 
formed arms. 

Descending the stairs, and gliding through the 
elegantly furnished rooms, Peggy passed through 
the hall where hung portraits of dead and gone 
Hazzards. Here were men with queues; women 


PEGGY KIP 


77 


straight and still in their stays; hoop skirted 
misses smiled at their stately ancestors. Near the 
end of the well-lighted room,. Peggy stopped in 
front of the last portrait to be hung — her own — 
vastly different from the rest. The gauzy scarf 
about the shoulders failed to hide the beauties of 
the matchless bosom — the crown of woman’s 
beauty. 

Beside Peggy’s portrait hung that of John Haz- 
zard at the age of twenty-one. ‘ ‘ What a long time 
ago that must have been,” she mused, while she 
read the gilt lettering on the heavy frame of her 
own portrait ; 

“Peggy Kip Hazzard, age twenty years.” 

With a sigh Peggy passed on to the end of the 
room. The long French doors opened into the 
breakfast room — all glass enclosed and facing the 
Sound. She stood watching the sail boats, mere 
specks of white dots upon the blue water; the chug, 
chug, chug of the fast-going motor boats came 
floating through the open windows. 

Peggy smiled, but there was sadness deep in 
her eyes. Something, a hidden warning as it 
were, came with a noisy rush; several high ten- 
sioned whistles blew furiously. Gazing far off 
Peggy could see no commotion — just a few pleas- 
ure seekers making a noise. 


78 


PEGGY KIP 


“Your breakfast is served,” announced Thonias, 
standing behind the chair. 

Mail, piled high by her plate, gave Peggy a 
thrill of real joy. “I ■wonder,” she thought, “if 
I will ever get to the point where letters fail to 
give me real delight?” 

The large crested envelopes Peggy knew were 
invitations — there was slight interest shown. 
They were all about the same thing: “I bid you 
wear your most gorgeous jewels,” “Have your 
modiste turn out her most exclusive and expensive 
gown,” “Look your best, my entertainment must 
be the very latest and most extravagant of the 
season;” “The society reporter has full instruc- 
tions to give much space to my guests, their social 
standing, their wealth,” etc. 

Peggy almost laughed aloud as she felt the full 
realization of all the empty waste going on ; how, 
during the months just past, she herself had been 
one of those very idlers. She saw her real self 
now! So she let her thoughts run on: 

“Last night a new Peggy was bom! The real 
Peggy! More real things would require her 
attention from now on ! John, dear old fellow — so 
uncomplaining! How had she repaid him for all 
this luxury? Today would be different!” 

Listlessly handling the heavy embossed cards, 
Peggy recognized many family crests. At the 


PEGGY KIP 


79 


very bottom of the pile, an envelope without crest 
or sign of affluence, attracted her. A keen pre- 
sentiment of news filled her! 

With trembling fingers, and a vivid flush mount- 
ing to her cheeks, Peggy excitedly tore the end 
off the clumsy envelope. The scarlet mounted 
higher — ^her eyes were glued to the school girlish 
hand. Greedily she read : 

“Dear Peggy: I know, dearie, you will be sur- 
prised to hear from me — maybe shocked — but I am 
just dying to see you, now that it is all settled that 
we are coming to New York to live! I just can’t 
wait to see you. I want you to write at once and 
say that we will see a whole lot of each other! 
Dick and I have been married six months! We 
are terribly tired of looking at each other! This 
sleepy old town had all the thrills bumped out of 
it years ago! Now, if I hadn’t been able to per- 
suade Dick to go to the city I am sure I would do 
something desperate — run off and go on the stage 
or — anything to get a thrill! You know, dearie, 
we have plenty of money now and he can afford 
to sit in a splendid office and wait for patients! 
The old gentleman, Dick’s grandfatKer, is greasy, 
with money — ^he makes it in oil — the old farm is 
dotted with derricks ; you expect to see a gusher 
any minute! We went down to see him on our 
honeymoon. Dick is the only real heir. ’Grand- 


80 


PEGGY KIP 


pa’ dotes on Mary’s son who worked his way 
through college — he has done the generous thing, 
however. Oh, Peg! It will be glorious to ride up 
the avenue, drop in to Florette’s, buy a gown, 
never think of the price or the other things I’d 
have to go without ! Then, just arable out to the 
waiting limousine and say, carelessly: ‘Home, 
James!’ Don’t laugh, dearie, and think me en- 
tirely insane — but you never did feel the sting of 
real poverty — have a new dress hanging in your 
closet for week's before the shoes and hat suitable 
to wear with it were forthcoming ! 

“I have been reading the New York papers — 
simply studying the social calendars, so that I 
will be familiar with names of those in the swell 
set, and know who is who! Needless to say, 
dearie, you seem to be the real queen — honorable 
mention in every edition ! 

“Claiming the old friendship that existed at 
Miss Amber’s school, I am counting upon a grand 
entrance into the Smart Set! With the proper 
start, dearie, don’t worry over your little Anne! 
I wonder if you will help me shop? No doubt you 
are bored to extinction at the thought of clothes — 
but just watch me, I will fairly revel in gowns and 
jewels ! Grandpa gave me a splendid fat check to 
spend on clothes. 

“I am coming on to New York in a few days. 


PEGGY KIP 


81 


Dick is tied up with several cases that interest 
him far more than my new wardrobe. I will he 
at the Eitz. Will drop you a line as soon as I 
arrive. How anxious I am to see you ! 

“Dreamland must be wonderful! How do you 
like being an old man’s darling? AnjTvay, dearie, 
he has time to say some of the sweet things that 
all women dote on! Dick is so taken up with 
pills and crippled kids that he really couldn’t he 
sure if I am a blonde or brunette ! Peg, I am go- 
ing to have my hair touched up ! I always hated 
this drab, almost brown, hair! I will come forth 
a work of art! A French maid who knows how 
to transform the ugly duckling will be my most 
precious possession. I know, Peggy dear, you are 
thinking how silly I am. Oh, dear girl, I am 
silly — I am silly with the joy that soon I will he 
alive and mingle with the gay crowds surging 
Broadway — that dear little ‘streak of brightness 
and joy’ — ‘dispeller of gloom’! Oh! the hours 
drag until I can say: ‘Hello, Broadway!’ 

“Your old friend, 

“Anne Carey Winston.” 

Long Peggy sat — ^her breakfast untouched — the 
letter before her, musing upon the contents. ‘ ‘ The 
same frothy Anne,” she thought, “with only 
visions of affluence guiding her life!” 

Peggy felt a sudden great aching cry surge up 


82 


PEGGY KIP 


from the very soul in her, a protest against the 
empty joy that was in the world ! 

Startled from her reverie by the hasty entrance 
of Paul Harvey, Peggy saw that his face was 
white and drawn. 

“Oh! my dear Mrs. Hazzard, it is dreadful! 
Try to be calm!” 

Seeing instantly that no news of the accident 
had yet reached her, Harvey went nearer, and 
taking Peggy ’s hand, he continued : ‘ ‘ Oh, haven ’t 
you heard?” His voice trembled; his emotion 
nearly overcame him. “We tried so hard to save 
him!” 

“Save who, Paul? What are you saying? 
Quick, tell me ! ’ ’ 

Turning to the window, Pegg}’^ saw the slowly 
moving crowd. “Is it John? Has something 
happened to him?” she asked, eagerly. 

With no effort to hide the tears that rolled down 
his cheeks, Paul Harvey almost whispered : 

“He is dead — drowned! His boat turned over. 
We tried to get him. I reached him just as he 
went down. I pulled him out — but too late! It 
was the shock. Life savers worked with him, 
but there was no water in his lungs — the shock 
killed him!” 

Peggy stood still — an alabaster image — trying 
to take in the meaning. Once again she had the 


PEGGY KIP 


83 


same feeling that had beat against her brain five 
years ago ! Was it the dawn of a day when even 
the sun itself would seem obliterated by a mantle 
of regret? 

With forced calmness she went to meet those 
who bore John Hazzard (cold in death) into his 
favorite room. They placed him upon the lux- 
ruious couch, where he was wont to lie and dream. 

Kneeling beside him, with dry eyes, Peggy 
leaned over the stiff, cold body. A choking emo- 
tion filled her throat, as she whispered : 

“Oh, John, forgive mie! I have failed to make 
you happy, but I didn’t know!” 

The calm peace that spread over his features 
gave assurance that there had been no struggle, no 
horror of the watery grave had filled his soul. 

Most of the day Peggy sat quietly with her dead. 
When her husband was taken away to he made 
reiady for cremation, all his wishes had been 
strictly adhered to — and this, the last one. 

One week passed without event. Then the per- 
sonal attorney of John Hazzard sat in the library 
at Dreamland, with Peggy Kip Hazzard, waiting 
for the servants to come in. They were to hear 
the last Will and Testament of their master. 

In a quiet, well modulated voice, the attorney 
read the generous bequests to those in his employ ; 
gifts to the charities with which he had always 


84 


PEGGY KIP 


been identified. The short doenment closed with 
a characteristic sentence: 

“All my personal property, relal estate, all 
money and holdings are to go to my beloved child 
tvifc, Peggy Kip Hazzard, after said bequests are 
paid.” 

A complete account of his wealth followed. A 
request that Judge Knott, for a stipulated sum, 
continue to act as the Hazzard attorney, giving 
all possible assistance to Peggy Kip Hazzard, was 
made. So ended the short life of Bachelor Haz- 
zard. 

The dress of soft black, with bands of crepe, 
proclaimed the mourning of the outward feelings 
of the Widow Hazzard, sitting quietly listening to 
ithe wishes of the man she had married. The fab- 
ulous wealth that was hers had not impressed her. 
She was trying hard to reason ; building one struc- 
ture that tumbled down, and replaced it with an- 
other more flimsy than the first. Truly, she was 
at sea. 

With dignity. Judge Knott arose, bidding her 
good day, and urging her to call for his services 
whenever desired, and if satisfactory, he 
would make no changes in his handling of the 
estate. 

Alone with only the servants Peggy decided to 
spend the period of mourning. Messages of con- 


PEGGY KIP 


85 


dolence poured in. Many who had journeyed to 
Dreamland gave a sigh of regret that th^ should 
be denied, even for a short period, the lavish en- 
tertainment. 

Weeks passed, the months brought Christmas 
near. The friends who came to see P^gy were 
all filled with plans for the season’s festivities. 

Peggy in her widow’s weeds — no jewels — only 
the diamond studded platinum circle that had 
never been taken from her third finger — was a 
fairer and more beautiful Peggy than the restless • 
butterfly who flitted from one field of pleasure to 
another, always taking care that her wings were 
never bent. 

Now the small voice from her soul whispered of 
loneliness — she was weighing a serious problem. 
“Why not?” she thought. “The world doesn’t 
expect one to isolate oneself entirely — even though 
the prescribed period of mourning is not half 
over.” 

Standing in front of the open grate, the tongues 
of red flame leaping up the chimney, Peggy gazed, 
fascinated with the picture she made. Suddenly 
aloud (her voice almost startling her with its 
vehemence) she exclaimed: 

“1 will do itV’ 

Seating herself at her desk, for half an hour 


86 


PEGGY KIP 


Peggy wrote. With satisfaction she read the 
address aloud: “Paul Harvey.” 

Then Peggy reminisced: “Good old pal; he 
will be glad to have the missing invitations once 
more.” 

The letter was simply a friendly one, asking 
him to spare her a few days of his busy holiday 
season. 

Vastly different was the letter to Anne (Mrs. 
Richard Winston). It was filled with loneliness, 
♦and insisted that Anne find time to come down 
and make her a visit. 

“I feel sure Dr. Winston will spare you for a 
little while, to help cheer your lonely friend,” the 
letter read. Then continuing: 

“I have been reading of your wonderful success 
in society this winter — the startling entrance into 
the set! My dear, ’tis seldom a newcomer is so 
soon acknowledged, 

“Am sorrj'^, indeed, that I was forced to forego 
the pleasure and happiness of introducing you to 
my friends. However, next season will see me 
making amends. Now, do let me know when to 
expect you — take pity on me. Maybe I can look 
up a few congenial souls who will come forward 
and help us in our dilemma. Bridge is always 
alluring! Then, I have wonderful records for my 
Victor — I remember how you adore dancing! I 


PEGaY KIP 


87 


have in mind a chap who dances divinely; so, dear, 
altogether, maybe you can stand Dreamland for 
a week. There are so many things for us to talk 
over. I know you are happy, dear, with ‘Dick,’ 
but come to visit your lonely, Peggy. ’ ’ 

The smile that played about Peggy’s mouth was 
hard to analyze. Pleasure or satisfaction, w'as it, 
in the task set before her? 

A woman scorned! At the thought, new energy 
filled Peggy’s being. Dick Winston had forgot- 
ten, but Peggy was a woman — and a woman never 
forgets ! 

Thompkins came at the sound of the bell. Peggy 
handed him the letters to be mailed. 

“You may have the evening off, Thompkins,” 
announced Peggy. “Marie has asked that you be 
free.” 

“Thank you, ma’am,” said Thompkins, bowing 
in genuine appreciation of the thoughtful kindness 
of his mistress. The trusted servant then left the 
room. 

From a silver box Peggy took a cigarette and 
lighted it. Slowly she blew rings of gray smoke 
that curled high into the room. 

“Oh, to be near you once more — ^to leave all this 
for ‘The Beeches,’ with its rickity furniture, old- 
fashioned garden — even the unattractive clothes I 


88 


PEGGY KIP 


hated so!” dreamed Peggy. Her thoughts car- 
ried her on : 

“Dich, I would give it all for one happy hour 
such as I knew with you!” 

Outside the waves pounded against the patient 
shore, the serene old moon waited for the end of 
the world. 


CHAPTER IV 


“Peggy!” 

“Anne!” 

In close embrace, these two women whom fate 
had decreed should play the master part in the 
real tragedy of life, stood gazing steadily, looking 
for any change that four years had brought. 

‘ ‘ So, Peg dearie, it is really true — all this splen- 
dor and luxury!” exclaimed Anne. “I have read 
and dreamed of such a home,” she continued, “but 
never in my wildest fancy have I pictured myself 
actually lolling about, perfectly at ease, just as if 
it really belonged to me! And aren’t you lovely 
in all this gorgeous setting! But you don’t seem 
the least bit excited over it!” 

Pegg}’' enjoyed Anne’s chatter, her spirited ap- 
preciation; wondering how it would feel to be 
filled with enthusiasm. 

Anne had arrived in the morning. Peggy waited 
in her glass enclosed car for the sound of the 
whistle announcing the train; then hurried to 
meet the dainty blue clad girl with silver furs. A 
pang of old-time jealousy, or disappointment, 
struggled with the warm greeting she was deter- 

89 


90 


PEGGY KIP 


mined to bestow upon Anne. All the girlish ex- 
clamations that had been forgotten came flying 
back to mind, as she listened to frivolous Anne, 
in the latter’s excitement of actually seeing 
“Peg,” the pride of Miss Amber’s social incu- 
bator, once more. 

“You know, dear, I have had good, hearty 
laughs over that poor soul,” said Anne, referring 
to Miss Amber. “How hard she worked with her 
chicks, getting them in just the proper condition 
to place them on the market ! She certainly has 
cause to be proud of the price you brought!” 

As the car rolled through the beautiful grounds, 
adjectives poured forth. Anne could not keep 
her surprise and wonder in check as the door 
opened at the entrance. Thompkins and Marie 
waited to relieve the visitor of wraps and bags. 

“Let Marie have your keys, dear,” said Peggy. 
“She will unpack y'^our toilet articles and put your 
clothes in order. The man will have your trunk 
up soon.” 

Luncheon was announced. 

Passing down the wide stairs into the quiet, 
elegant dining room, exclamations of admiration 
came from Anne. 

“Such splendor! Who would think it. Peg? 
Here we are in your home — ^you a widow, and me 
— well ! I sometimes wonder what Dick did 


PEGGY KIP 


91 


marry me for ! Eeally he is too busy to be wor- 
ried with a wife ! ’ ’ Anne went on, chatting glibly, 
and eating with evident relish the dainties pre- 
pared by Mammy Jane. 

In the library, Peggy had drawn the curtains 
from the long row of low windows that gave a 
full view of the Sound, and clapping her hands 
in delightful joy, Anne exclaimed: 

“Oh, that I could stay right here forever — 
like the fairy book says, “and they lived happy 
ever afterward ” 

The pillows piled high upon the couch were 
most inviting to luxury-loving Anne, so she cud- 
dled, kitten fashion, among them. From a deep, 
comfy chair drawn close by, Peggy handed her her 
silver cigarette case. 

“Wonder what Miss Amber would say?” ques- 
tioned Anne, lighting a match, carefully. “How- 
ever, I puffed my first perfumed tobacco in the 
quiet halls of Amber!” 

Oh, how Peggy longed to ask a hundred ques- 
tions — all about Dick. Instead, she asked almost 
unconcernedly : 

“Well, Anne aren’t you going to tell me some- 
thing of your good looking husband? I am anx- 
ious to listen to all the wonderful things about 
him. It is splendid that he is to join us for the 
week end.” Peggy was calm as she spoke. Con- 


92 


PEGGY KIP 


tinuing: “I suppose we must assume great dig- 
nity when the great physician arrives?” 

The look that gradually stole into Peggy’s eyes 
was hard, almost cruel. 

Suddenly Anne asked, springing from the 
couch : 

“What was the name of the place in Kentucky 
where you lived? I mentioned you to Dick one 
day — ^but I simply couldn’t remember your home 
town. He said he knew a little country girl by 
the name of Peggy Kip — ^but after I described 
you to him he was sure you were not the same ! 
My ! How very poetical he grew when speaking of 
Ms Peggy,” Anne rattled on. Quoting her hus- 
band, she continued: 

“ ‘ A shy little thing — a dear little wild flower — 
longing to fly away to be a real lady.’ 

“Dick was so sorry for her. ‘She wore her 
hair plaited in braids,’ he said, ‘and pulled so 
tight from her forehead that I know she couldn’t 
have taken a nap in the day time!’ ” 

Anne rattled on — ^little dreaming of the hurt 
in Peggy’s heart.. She told of the tiffs and jeal- 
ous tendency of Dick — all the intimate things that 
most girls hold sacred, were laid bare ! 

A hearty laugh brought Peggy back from remi- 
niscent hy gonesl 

‘ ‘ Oh, dear ! J ust think how silly he was ! Just 


PEGGY KIP 


93 


becatise I danced three times with Hugh Nolan 
at our graduation hop, he flew into a tantrum, 
packed his trunk! Off to Kentucky he went; 
spent the whole summer with his grandfather! 
But — like all bad boys — ^he came hack ! 

“Mother was straining every point to send me 
to Miss Amber, thinking that an ‘F. F. V.’ even 
without a fortune, should be able to land a mil- 
lionaire,” said Anne. “I just let her think it — 
spent two wonderful years — went home — did so- 
ciety until Dick came home from Europe ! Oh ! 
Such grand airs! 

“Well! To make a long story short, we were 
married! White satin, orange blossoms, ‘Here 
Comes the Bride,’ and so forth; loads of old 
shoes and rice; plenty of bridal gifts^ — in fact, the 
whole thing was dubbed ‘a success’! ” 

Then more seriously, Anne continued: 

“Do you know, Peggy, I sometimes wonder if 
we were really in love — or if it was a ease of just 
wed because the community expected it. 

Again Anne’s mood changed. “Oh, ho! I saw 
dear old Hugh in New York last week. He 
looked fit and fine, but there was a real touch of 
‘How-could-you-do-it, Anne’ in his eyes, and that 
small voice that so often speaks to us — and we 
try hard to still it^ — whispered a whole lot of 
things to me!” 


94 


PEGGY KIP 


Peggy gazed steadily into the fire, trying to 
analyze her own feelings, as she listened to the 
prattle of Anne. She had a vague suspicion that 
there were many evil things in life, but she be- 
lieved in the saying that “If you keep your own 
heart pure, they cannot come near you.” Now 
she had learned that these evil things could steal 
into the very sanctuary set apart for holy things. 

Peggy realized that the very act of bringing 
Dick Winston’s wife to Dreamland was the first 
evil step, and listening to the description of the 
gawky country girl, her brain burned with intense 
desire to avenge the wrong. With clinching 
teeth she registered her vow. 

“I will compel his love! I will take him from 
this brainless chit of a girl I ’ ’ 

Peggy had had no conception of the terrific 
force of a mature passion until now. Only one 
thought was in her brain, one great desire dom- 
inated her. 

“Why, Peg, what are you dreaming?” asked 
Anne. “I know you haven’t heard a word that 
I have said for ten minutes. I know, dear; you 
have been here too long by yourself! You are 
moody! ’Tisn’t right! Say, Peg, why not have 
a small house party — a few live ones — ^you need 
it! No wonder you are so white and stately! 
Come, come, don’t be gloomy!” 


PEGGY KIP 


95 


Springing to her feet, Anne hummed a popular 
dance tune, whirling Peggy around the room to 
the piano. 

“Sit down here and play some of those old 
syncopated things — ^the kind we all loved to hear 
you play,” begged Anne. “A.nyway, I have suc- 
ceeded in bringing a little color to your face ! I 
just can’t stand to see you look so white and 
cold! The marble statues standing guard at the 
gates of Rome haven’t a thing on you when it 
comes to ‘marble beauty’! 

“Remember, Peg, there are two kinds of beauty 
— the white, innocent, cold, statuesque kind, and 
the glowing, warm, passionate female^ — that fills 
the male with desire ! Take my advice, charming 
ividotv! Cultivate the creation of passion! Men 
will swarm around you! Ytour life will be filled 
with one love-sick swain after another!” 

“Oh, Peggy! How I envy you the beaux and 
admiring throng of fortune hunters that will fall 
all over themselves to get in when you throw the 
doors open to this wonderful place!” 

After a moment’s quiet, Anne began again, 
this time in a new mood : 

“Oh, dear me! Guess I will sit here at your 
desk — use some of this gilded stationery, and 
write to Dick — you know wives must write their 
husbands ! May I tell him to bring that wonder- 


96 


PEGGY KIP 


fnl looking Warwick chap with him? Oh, Peggy ! 
I am so bored with Dick ! His only conversation 
with me is one continual lecture! I will be de- 
lighted to turn him over to you ! That young Dr. 
Warwick is really a splendid fellow!” 

“I think a foursome will be great. — in fact, dee- 
lightful!” replied Peggy, laughing somewhat 
heartily, trying to show Anne that she welcomed 
the suggestion that Dick should have Dr. War- 
wick accompany him to Dreamland. 

Seating herself at the piano, Peggy played a 
soft accompaniment to a love song that she 
hummed. Anne was busily writing her letter, 
trying to word the invitation so as to suit her 
exacting husband. 

When the missive was carefully sealed, Anne 
slipped to a place by Peggy on the piano bench. 

“Oh, you dear!” she began. “I know we will 
have a splendid time!” 

Anne selected a passionate love song. 

“Let’s sing this — I adore it!” 

Peggy listened attentively to the round sweet 
tones that filled the room, as Anne let herself 
loose, in perfect abandon. Another selfish point 
gained! Peggy had already scented a romance 
at the first mention of Dr. Warwick — sparkling 
eyes and flushed cheeks told more than Anne 
loiew. 


PEGGY KIP 


97 


“I wonder if ’tis true the world over that self- 
guilt finds always excuses and causes,” thought 
Peggy. 

Plans were rapidly forming. A still, small 
voice whispered constantly to Peggy — she could 
not crowd it out. Above everj’- noise — above 
every emotion — ^it came ; stronger as the plans for 
her guests were materializing. Her firm decision 
seemed to be : 

“I will have my heart’s desire!” 

Peggy tried time and time again to beat it back. 
Youth with its loves fights for its chance to live, 
so the five days of waiting passed quickly. 

This the waited-for day, Peggy smiled her 
“Good morning” to Anne. They were waiting 
for their horses to be brought around. 

Eight o’clock in the morning the country roads 
are wonderful. Green and brown autumn tints, 
tinged with red, met the eye everywhere. 

The Sound in the distance gleamed in sparkling 
splendor. Peggy rode to the hounds as did 
Anne. Their red coats informed the inhabitants 
that members of the fashionable winter colony 
were passing. 

Breakfast at the Hunt Club, where Peggy was 
a prime favorite, pleased Anne more than any- 
thing. 

“Oh! How splendid to be rich! Just see the 


98 


PEGGY KIP 


wonderful things one can do, and the places that 
fling wide their doors to welcome one! I some- 
times wonder how I ever lived through that 
skimping period of my young life!” said Anne, 
complainingly. “Oh! You may laugh, but yoii 
never had to dye the ribbons for your hair season 
after season, or go to the attic to look over your 
grandmother’s old wardrobe in hopes that you 
might find a few frills to wear to the Christmas 
ball — where all your friends were decked out in 
new dancing frocks of the latest fashion! Oh, 
dear me! My heart fairly ceases to beat when I 
think of those terrible days!” Anne’s voice was 
full of bitterness. 

Anne joined the players in the billiard room. 
Peggy watched her, as she skilfully handled her 
cue. 

“I hate to disturb the game, dear,” said Peggy, 
“but this is Saturday — your husband may come 
on an early train. I think we better be off. When 
you finish that game we’ll make a run for home. 
There will be just time enough for a shower and 
change for luncheon. You see dear, I must make 
a favorable impression. You have told Dr. Win- 
ston so much about me, he must not be disap- 
pointed. ’ ’ 

Bidding those congregated about the huge fire- 
place goodbye, the two women went out to their 


PEGGY KIP 


99 


horses, both of which were nervously champing 
their bits. 

Tossing a generous tip to the red-coated groom, 
Peggy led the way in a mad gallop. 

At home Marie opened the door. 

“A message from Dr. Winston, Madame. He 
and Dr. Warwick arrive on the 12:30 train. I 
have sent James to the station.” 

“Just as I thought, Anne,” said Peggy. They 
are coming in time for lunch.” 

But Anne, busy admiring herself in the long 
mirror, seemed lost to everything save the fit of 
the breeches and coat. 

“Oh! You vain little minx! Don’t you know 
we haven’t a moment to spare?” asked Pegg\'. 

“I know you are perfectly charming in riding 
clothes — but hurry, dear, ma!ke yourself beau- 
tiful!” 

Laughing and joking they climbed the stairs. 
At her door, Anne gave Peggy an impetuous kiss 
on her rosy cheek. 

“Oh, you wonderful creature!” she ejaculated. 
“Wear one of those clinging things that seem 
made specially for young widows — shows off all 
the curves and hidden beauties! Say, Peg, let 
me whisper something — a secret. Vamp DicTc! 
I will so enjoy a little freedom!” 


100 


PEGGY KIP 


Closing the door quickly, Peggy stood, repeat- 
ing, over and over: “Vamp Dick!” 

Marie had chosen a soft mauve georgette with 
long flowing sleeves. 

“You may go, Marie. Stop and see if Mrs. 
Winston needs anything,” ordered Peggy. 

Alone before her glass, Peggy fumbled with 
hooks and buttons. The excitement of her free- 
dom, mingled with the nen’^ousness of loneliness, 
threw her into a curious condition which was not 
without flerceness. A blush spread over her face 
and glowed rosily through her sheer blouse. 

The short toot of an automobile horn pro- 
claimed the guests had arrived. 

Anne went pellmell down the long stairs. 

“Here they are, Peggy! Hurrj’’ down!” 

Peggy Kip Hazzard braced herself for the 
meeting. She felt this to be her hour of triumph. 
At last she was to see Dick — -Dick, whose image 
still buried deep in her heart, haunted her dreams, 
whose kisses burned her lips, yet — ^he so soon 
forgot ! 

Down in the entrance hall Peggy knew they 
were waiting — she could hear Thompkins assist- 
ing with coats and bags. Summoning all her 
courage, she hurried to do her duty as hostess. 

Anne, embracing her husband, failed to notice 


PEGGY KIP 


101 


the quick, indrawn breath, as Peggy advanced 
with outstretched hands in hearty welcome. 

The introduction was interrupted by Dick’s ex- 
clamation : 

“Anne, this is Peggy — the same Peggy Kip!” 

With both her hands clasped by the two strong 
ones, that sent thrills of joy coursing through 
her body, Peggy’s brain was in a whirl. Eyes 
gazed straight into eyes that held without waver! 

Dick Winston felt he was standing on the edge 
of a lifetime. 

Anne was saying something — a jumble of 
sounds all incoherent. 

Dr. Warwick was shaking bands with Peggy. 
He caught words of conversation of meeting 
Peggy in Eome art galleries — really his whole 
brain seemed in a muddle. 

“Thomas, show the gentlemen to their rooms,” 
said Peggy. Then to the guests ; 

“Luncheon will he served at 1:30 promptly.” 

Anne reminded them : 

“And don’t keep us waiting; we are as hungry 
as wolves, after a ten-mile canter!” 

Humming the latest waltz, Anne followed 
Peggy from the hall into the library, where they 
rearranged the flowers. 

At luncheon, conversation centered around Miss 
Anjber’s ^hopl and local happenings; the coming 


102 


PEGGY KIP 


Hunt Club ball, a rumored divorce and a recently 
announced engagement. 

Dick Winston tried to introduce the summer 
he spent in old Kentucky visiting his grandfather 
and incidentally meeting Peggy Kip, but Peggj' 
playfully put her hands over both ears. 

“Oh, Dick! don’t please! I am trying my very 
hardest to forget those pig tail braids and hideous 
dresses. Uncle Don said I must never let myself 
think of those days and all the ugly things I had 
to deck my body with.” Laughing gayly: 

“Do you know, on the very coldest days I wear 
the thinnest garments, slippers and cob webby 
stockings, just to show Aunt Nellie’s spirit (if it 
be stalking around) that I haven’t the croup or 
pneumonia!” 

Everyone joined in merry laughter at Peggy’s 
description of Aunt Nellie. 

“W^e will have coffee in the library,” an- 
nounced Peggy. 

With comfy chairs drawn about the open fire, 
the serving cart between lierself and Dick, Peggj^ 
graciously handed the Sevres cups to each guest. 

Dick leaned far back in his chair and chewed 
the cud of reflection. 

Dr. Warwick and Anne were in a heated argu- 
ment over the popularity of their favorite Broad- 
way star. 


PEGGY KIP 


103 


Peggy lapsed into quietude. Her eyes caught 
the gleam of bygone years. She read the mind 
of Dick Winston. Memory swept over them both, 
and sent mists to cloud their eyes. 

In Dick, Peggy found irregular features, 
slightly stooped shoulders, eyes that had grown 
weak by hard and constant use in seeking the 
written knowledge of eminent writers long passed 
on. But beneath these surface blemishes was 
God-given sweetness, for which her whole heart, 
soul and body hungered! 

“My! How quiet you and Dick are!” Anne 
chirped, from the depth of a sleepy-hollow chair. 
“Please, Peg, play that new waltz. Dick adores 
music, and I am such a poor excuse.” 

Glad of anything to break the spell of bygones 
that hung heavily oyer her, Peggy moved grace- 
fully to the piano. 

“Oh, no indeed, I don’t need music,” said 
Peggy. “I play entirely by ear; in fact the most 
I do is to improvise according to my mood. Tem- 
peramental? Well, yes and no! It is mostly lone- 
liness. 

“Light your cigar, Dick — sit over there and 
gaze over the Sound — our most wonderful view. 
I will do my best to speak through black and 
white keys of some of the things that have filled 
my mind for ages. Oh ! don’t worry over Anne’s 


104 


PEGGY KIP 


chatter ; I never mind when people talk. I know 
then they are entertained.” 

Outwardly calm, Dick Winston was battling 
with old memories that forced forgotten scenes 
of a Kentuclfy village upon him — the old Camp 
residence; summer house, covered with honey- 
suckle and rambler roses, even the perfume 
seemed to steal over his senses as he traveled 
the road of yesterdays. 

Listening to plaintive airs that Peggy im{Si.o- 
vised, he realized words that are vain and dis- 
tracting and can lead one far astray. Music 
breathes the spirit of tnith, and we can see with 
unhindered vision our mistakes. 

“My! We are wrapt in gloom! exclaimed Anne. 
“Peg, you and your music have cast a spell upon 
us. Let’s do something! You take me back to 
the days at ‘Amber’ when we would turn the 
lights very low — ^insist that you play those weird 
spooky airs that no one but you can bring forth — 
so that we could all enjoy real homesickness, shed 
tears, have red noses and indulge ourselves to 
our heart’s content in reciting our woes!” 

Lifting both Peggy’s hands from the keys, 
Anne exclaimed again: 

“Come, let’s take a ride on the Sound road! 
I’ll drive the car. Look at Dick and Dr. War- 
wick ! You have transported them to realms un- 


PEGGY KIP 


105 


known! I really think they have forgotten that 
two charming ladies are waiting for some choice 
bits of conversation!” 

Peggy smiled the sadness away. 

“Surely we will drive — a splendid idea! reit- 
erated Peggy. 

“Gentlemen, your coats!” Anne announced 
gleefully. “We will be with you very shortly.” 

Thomas appeared at the door. 

“No tea this afternoon,” Peggy informed him. 
“Have the Packard brought around. No, I will 
not need James.” 

Anne was at the wheel; Dr. Warwick by her 
side. Dick and Peggy were luxuriously comfort- 
able in the hack seat. No one seemed inclined for 
conversation. 

On they flew, over the smooth gravel road. The 
sun gradually went down to meet the still waters 
on the Sound. No house in sight, only the silver 
radiance of an October night and the swish of 
wild winds in gold and scarlet leaves. 

One never knows how it happens. Dick’s hand 
had found the soft fingers of Peggy’s hands, that 
lay tightly clasped underneath the warm rug. 
His strong hand covered her two small ones and 
held them crumpled like rose leaves. The intox- 
ication of Peggy’s magnetism crept into Dick’s 
blood. Peggy felt the wild elixir of tumultuous 


106 


PEGGY KIP 


emotion sweeping her out into worlds of ecstasy. 

On, on they sped for hours, finally turning into 
the drive that wound through the grounds of 
Dreamland. Anne drew up to the entrance. 

^‘Some driver!” ejaculated Dr. Warwick. 

“I should say so,” came breathlessly from the 
other two, simultaneously. 

“Yes, but hurry now!” cried Anne. “My 
lungs are full of fresh air and I am quite ready 
for dinner! You know, Peg, there is one friend 
that never has deserted me — Appetite!” 

With good-natured banter, Peggy admonished 
all to be ready to do justice to Mammy Jane’s 
dinner. She informed them: 

“You know Mammy Jane takes it as a personal 
affront when ‘de company don’t eat!’ ” 

In her room with the door closed against the 
world, Peggy insisted that Marie lay out her most 
becoming dinner gown. She was especially anx- 
ious that her hair be done in the style best suited 
to her — in fact, an intense desire to look her best 
possessed her. 

The two “week-end” days were filled with 
excitement. Peggy was perilously near to hys- 
teria. On Sunday several old friends joined the 
house guests. 

Anne, was feverishly gay — she hated saying 


PEGGY KIP 


107 


good-bye to the shifting, colorful, crowded days 
of varied excitement. She begged pleadingly; 

‘ ‘ Oh, Peggy dear ! Do let me come again soon ! 
I wonder if you have had half the happiness and 
enjoyment that you have given me? And, Oh! 
we had such glorious times before the men 
came!” 

Good-byes were being said. 

Dick held Peggy’s hand. In her quietly spoken 
adieux was a sweeter, deeper note than had ever 
been there before. 

Peggy watched them drive away. The air 
actually wreaked with loneliness. She knew well 
the undercurrent of tender understanding. 

Do you think we can alter the foundation of 
our nature? 


CHAPTER VII. 


It was a beautiful morning. The cold, balmy 
air was at its winteriest best. The snow had 
carpeted the hills. The sun shown resplendent, 
and the icicles glistened upon the trees like thou- 
sand of gems, scintilating in the leafless boughs. 

Peggy trembled as if with ague — ^yet her face 
was flushed and hot. Opening the door of the 
glass-enclosed versinda, her hands tight over her 
heart, she stepped out into the cold chilling 
breeze, inhaling freely the delicious air. 

Two weeks had dragged slowly since she stood 
watching Anne drive away, waving good-bye. A 
girlish note three days later, filled with expres- 
sions of joy, and ending in Anne’s own delightful 
way, urging Peggy to make a visit to her at an 
early date, ended thus : 

“I am actually lonely. Dick is so taken up 
with his new ideas of joint braces for cripple 
children that I am almost mad! I have heard 
nothing else since the celebrated Dr. Jacobi has 
called in to see some of his cases ! Oh, Peg ! It 
is awfully trying to be the wife of a real ambitious 
young M. D. ! Dick has very little time for me ! 

108 


PEGGY KIP 


109 


I am doing the best I can to amuse myself — or 
maybe, who knows? — some one may be persuaded 
to amuse me ! ’ ’ 

After reading Anne’s letter, Peggy bad let her- 
self wonder many times if she had Dick for her 
husband, would she ever wearj’- of his ambition? 
And always a voice answered: “No — a thousand 
times no ! I would help him climb the heights ! 

“Saturday — today!'' she whispered. 

Early this morning she was awakened to answer 
a ’phone call that insisted upon speaking to Mrs. 
Hazzard. 

“Coidd it be his voice?” she thought. 

“Peggy, may I come down? — please say ‘Yes!’ 
I want to sit quietly and listen to you play those 
soft, sweet, intimate things you improvise so won- 
derfully! I am so tired, Peg,” continued the 
voice of Dick "Winston. “Been terribly busy; 
kinder worn out! Anne is off on some house 
party. Say ‘Yes’ quick, Peg. I wish to leave 
here now on the 11 :30 train — am even too weary 
to drive my car — quick — is there anything I can 
bring down— anything you would like?” 

Out in the open air shei breathed freely once 
more. 

"Why had she said yes? Why didn’t she plead 
another engagement? These questions, with a 


110 


PEGGY KIP 


dozen others, crowded her mind. A few minutes 
to eleven — ^in another hour he would be here ! 

A cold breeze blew against her — ^yet Peggy was 
not chilled. Her blood ran like rivers of fire 
through her veins! Strange, no sense of guUt 
possessed her — only one mad desire! She had 
awakened to the deep thrilling, terrifying, absorb- 
ing, delicious need of love! 

From her bedroom window Peggy watched the 
road leading from the station. How slowly the 
clock ticked — the hands seemed to stand still! 
Ages had passed since the voice over the ’phone 
had awakened her to the joy of anticipation! 

Straining her eyes, Peggy distinguished the 
dark green car. Yes, James was driving rapidly ! 
A laugh, hysterical in its joy, convulsed her — 
tears ran down her cheeks. 

“My love! My love!” she cried, almost aloud. 
“By all man’s laws you belong to her who has 
wearied of you, but God gave you io me! I will 
wind myself so completely about you that no 
power can take you from me!” 

Quickly dashing cold water over her face so as 
to remove all trace of the burning tears, Peggy 
stood in front of the long mirror. No trace of 
sorrow. Her composed bearing gave the charm 
of graciousness, to the welcome she was extend- 


PEGGY KIP 


111 


ing to Dr. Winston, who had already removed 
his heavy storm coat. 

From the long graceful lines of her slender 
body to the dead white of her skin and the intense 
red of her passionate lips she seemed to embody a 
mute understanding as old as the inarticulate 
mate-cry of the primitive world. 

Their eyes met and held in a surrender that both 
felt vaguely. Words were needless. 

Luncheon was a mere form — a masquerade of 
words and honesty of glances. 

Over coffee and cigarettes Dick spoke lightly 
of Anne, the joy she was having, being fed up 
on flattery and the thrills she had when spending 
her generous allowance. 

“I sometimes wonder where it will lead or 
end!” he continued, as if pouring out his whole 
heart to her. “The set which she has chosen to 
surround her is identified mostly with afternoon 
dancing, cocktails and matinees, theatre of musi- 
cal comedy kind, and the inevitable after theatre 
revels, ending in headaches, bromo seltzer, and 
so forth! Oh! I tell you, Peggy, very plainly, it 
is not the ideal life ! I am seldom included in the 
parties — I am too busy, or too tired ! 

“Money does not buy everything.” Dick was 
solemn and serious now. “Why, girl, I have a 
little cripple fellow whose smile is worth millions ! 


112 


PEGGY KIP 


His appreciation of my feeble efforts in his behalf 
— is wonderful! I would give all my wealth to 
be able to cure him ! Such a chipper little fellow ! 
His answer to inquiries in regard to his health 
are always met with : 

“ ‘Gee! I feel better today, and say, Doe, you 
is doin’ me lots of good!’ 

“Such optimism! smiled Dick. “Last night I 
read half the night on his ease!” 

Peggj' was entranced as she listened to Dick 
Winston pouring out his ambition to help with 
science those poor little creatures Avho already 
trusted him and looked to him for relief from their 
suffering ! 

Now and then the very intimate affairs of life 
were very near — but Peggj^ warded off, with 
splendid diplomacy, all perilous allusions, and kept 
conversation centered upon Dr. Winston and his 
work — the glorious good she saw him accomplish- 
ing — his success! She was reminded of the old 
adage; “Keep a man interested, talk of his 
achievements and feed his ambition.” 

The dying fire on the hearth cast a red glow, a 
sort of friendly benediction. Moving over to the 
piano, Peggy ran her handsi carelessly over the 
keys, improvising songs without words that spoke 
more eloquently than the master of any vocabu- 


PEGGY KIP 


113 


lary. A tear fell from her eye, set free by the 
tenderness of her fancy. 

“Let’s get our coats and go for a brisk walk 
through the grounds — a run down by the Sound,” 
said Peggy. “It is splendid — I do it every eve- 
ning — gives you a wonderful appetite. I noticed 
how little you ate at luncheon. You did not show 
proper appreciation for Mammy Jane’s culinary 
art. I expect you to do better tonight — and, you 
have not yet spoken to her. She resents any fail- 
ure to recognize her as a member of the family. 
She made a few doubtful remarks about you on 
that account, so I charge you to go out to see her 
and insist that you remember her and are glad to 
renew your old friendship.” 

“Bless your heart, indeed I do remember 
Mammy Jane. She was our official chaperone, 
and a fine one, too. How long has she been with 
you?” asked Dick. 

“I sent for her soon after we came home from 
Europe. She was here waiting for me when I 
arrived. It seems to he the dear old soul’s mis- 
sion in life to take care of me in my loneliness. 

“Thomas, tell Mammy Jane to come here.” 

The liveried Thomas, who could hardly appre- 
ciate the love his mistress lavished upon the old 
negro woman, left the room.” 

“Yes, honey chile, here I is; what you want?” 


114 


PEGGY KIP 


The bulky form in the well-remembered check 
dress and bandana, shuffled into the room, talking 
to herself. 

“Ha! Ha! Sho null, you is Marster Dick!” 

As Dick took both the shriveled black hands in 
warm greeting, he said: 

“How’dy, Mammy; so here you are, way up 
here!” 

“Yes, Marster Dick ’aint no place too fur fer 
me to go tending dis chile. I’se pow’ful glad ter 
see you, ’deed I is! Law’, Honey, I neber will 
f orgit you ! Didn ’t you make a leetle sunshine fer 
dis chile when her ole Mammy mos’ nigh gib up? 

“Now run long wid yer walkin’, but mine, don’t 
yer chillun stay too long, ’cause I got my salt ris- 
in’ bread ready to roll out and put in de oven. 
Go long now, and ’joy yourse’ves, but come back 
in ’bout a hour!” 

Turning into the hall, Mammy waddled out to- 
ward the kitchen, holding a close conversation with 
herself in regard to young folks’ ways. 

Through the' winding paths Dick and Peggy 
walked, silently. A beautiful hush hung over the 
Sound. Peace seemed settled over all the world — 
everywhere but in Peggy’s life and heart. She 
knew that silence was more eloquent than words 
in times like this, so she made no effort to speak. 

A pile of stones left by laborers lay in their 


PEGGY KIP 


115 


patli, Dick tood hold of her arms tenderly. It 
sent a thrill of rapture through her; nature tele- 
graphed the call of the heart and the answer of 
the blood. One may forget God and mother, but 
one cannot get away from the haunting heart-crj’ 
of one’s first love. 

Arm in arm they strolled. Casual remarks 
about the weather, admiration for the fantastic 
clouds forming themselves into wonderful pictures 
that held the eyes and then gradually melted into 
greyish blue that met the still dark waters — ^was 
the extent of their conversation. 

An inexpressible peace had descended upon the 
Sound, which was bathed in a faint yellow light, 
almost unreal in its delicate loveliness. Something 
strangely beautiful in the silence — the evening star 
and the new moon. 

‘ ‘ Oh, Dick ! See the moon ! Wish ! Wish over 
your right shoulder!” Then, almost ashamed of 
the childish outcry: 

“I forgot — I am not speaking to Dick — it is to 
Dr. Eichard Winston, who does not deal with 
childish things! Anyway, Dick, do you remem- 
ber our wish with the new moon — the night Uncle 
Don came?” 

She remembered — the joy of her simplicity and 
the bitterness of its passing! 

A shadow stole over everything; the wind came 


116 


PEGGY KIP 


from the leafless trees like the sound of suppressed 
grief. 

Dick Winston bit hard upon his cigar. Draw- 
ing Peggy close, with both arms around her, he 
whispered : 

“Conscience digs its own hell! Happy, happy 
days, dear!” 

Suddenly Dick Winston felt very old. It seemed 
an eternity hack to that time when he played with 
love. The strained white face and reproach in her 
large soft eyes told the story more gently than 
words. The night has a thousand eyes — the in- 
evitable call of youth to youth was answered ! 

Suddenly Dick realized he had kissed the delight 
of love into her life. Struggling in the arms that 
held her fast, Peggy finally surrendered her lips 
— glued with passionate kisses — known only to 
those who belong, physically and spiritually, to 
each other. 

A kiss is the first bead on the rosary of sin. 

How alike are the impressions of extreme happi- 
ness and extreme sorrow! Tears flowed down 
Peggy’s cheeks; convulsive sobs shooks her body, 
as she leaned against him! 

With wild, mad sweetness, Dick longed to kiss 
all the loneliness from her life. A new under- 
standing mysteriously found birth in his heart. 

A new calmness stole over the woman, who 


PEGGY ZIP 


117 


smiled through her tears and could find no words 
to explain the great joy that filled her heart! 

The brilliant crescent of the new moon sud- 
denly emerged from a bank of purple clouds. 
The lights of Dreamland beckoned. 

“Oh, Dick! We must turn hack! Mammy 
Jane will scold! We have forgotten all about her 
hot rolls!” 

Walking briskly homeward, hand in hand, both 
realized they had traveled far along the road of 
youthful romance. 

The bulky form of the faithful Mammy Jane 
could be seen, with her hand over her eyes, watch- 
ing from the side door. 

Peggy gave a shrill “Hoo! Hoo!” — as one pal 
to another. 

“You see, Dick, Mammy and I still use our old 
signals. Dinner will be all ready by the time we 
doff our heavy coats. What a real homey time 
we are having! I am not changing my sport 
skirt!” — laughing. “I can’t leave you alone — I 
am jealous of eveiy minute !” 

Two happy hours passed quickly. Dick reluc- 
tantly said good-bye. 

“Indeed, I am driving with you to the station !” 
announced Peggy. 

Peggy watched the Long Island train until it 
was far on its way. 


118 


PEGGY KIP 


James tucked the fur robes comfortably about 
her, and as the car sped along the familiar road, 
Peggy gave herself up to retrospection. She 
mused upon life, its beginning and its end— its 
mistakes, sorrows. And even death, that many 
times she craved, was viewed, and with a heart- 
felt prayer, she asked that her life might go on 
and on. 

Strange — ^no thought of Anne had come to mar 
her happiness, or cloud the joy flooding her soul. 
Clinching her teeth, Peggy bit her underlip until 
specks of blood came through the delicate skin! 
Her hands clasped and unclasped. Ghosts of the 
past stalked along the snow-covered hills. Hu- 
miliation covered her — for she fully realized she 
was only a part of the old, old story— wife — and 
the other wotmni 

Suddenly a smile of real determination broke 
through the sadness that beclouded Peggy’s face. 
She determined to play the game! A new dodge 
in the eternal game between man and woman! 
No hysterical promises! She knew well the im- 
possibility to stop loving by request! If there 
were such a solution, then there would be no love 
sickness, no hearts to break in lonely longing! 
The world would be a paradise! 


CHAPTER Vm. 


The days and weeks went so rapidly that Peggy 
could hardly realize that it lacked only three 
weeks until Christmas. She had forgotten every- 
thing save Dick! His morning call over the 
’phone to bid her be happy through the day — ^his 
goodnight call when he said all the sweet things 
that feed love-sick hearts! The short visits to 
Dreamland, where he lunched or had dinner tete- 
a-tete — all these things made her life full! She 
gave no thought to the future. Each day was her 
own — there seemed no yesterday — ^no tomorrow! 

Now Peggy had suddenly awakened to the fact 
of Christmas pleasure and Christmas giving. The 
invitations must be sent out for the small house 
party she had planned and almost forgotten. 

A new radiance flooded the earth. Dreamland 
should play no small part in joy-giving. A few 
congenial friends must be brought together. 

With real anticipation of happy hours, Peggy 
set to work with her address book selecting those 
she felt would fill all requirements for a small 
party. ‘‘Dr. Warwick and Anne Winston, of 
course,” thought Peggy. A deep crimson cov- 

119 


120 


PEGGY KIP 


ered her face. She tried to be, free of guilt in 
thoughts of Anne. She had heard rumors of 
the gay life and nightly revels that claimed the 
young woman — the “shining light” in their merry 
parties. 

“Town Gossip” had devoted sevdral frothy 
articles to “the rounders” and their fair com- 
panion — even hinting that a certain prominent 
physician had better warn his young wife of the 
evils of too many drinks. Her hilarious conduct 
was beginning to be commented upon, and her ex- 
treme costumes caused her to be the cynosure of 
all eyes as she was nightly seen in the gayest of 
Broadway cafes. 

The tinkle of the telephone cut short the sum- 
ming up of any part she had played in the life of 
Anne, and the regrets for her shortcomings were 
passed over quickly.” 

“Yes! This is Peggy. Oh, Dick! Indeed I 
do ! It is wonderful — ^join you at 12 :30 for lunch 
— Waldorf, you and Anne?” 

‘ ‘ Right 0 ! Be on time — ^bye-bye ! ’ ’ 

Such a business tone — but Peggy could feel the 
thrill of anticipation. At last her wish to be 
shown through the children’s hospital was to be 
realized ! 

Peggy listened to Dick and watched every word 
he said. She knew that his pent-up feeling found 


PEGGY KIP 


121 


an outlet in the one subject near to his heart when 
she asked him to tell of the great cures and the 
mysterious things he constantly worked on — ^in 
the hope to benefit some deformed little body. 
She knew, too, that Anne was greatly annoyed 
at the mention of his work. She would have 
much preferred that he practice in the exclusive 
homes of the rich. Charitj'’ and the poor found 
little favor in her sight. She made excuses for 
her husband’s absence from gay parties, saying 
that he was too busy with his “crippled kids.” 

Peggy’s interest had constantly grown in the 
wish to do something to aid Dick in his splendid 
work. She wanted to go to see the little ones. 
Already little Pete was one of her special cases. 
She sent books that he read to the other children. 
How brave he was when his leg was being 
straightened! Dick had taken him to a cele- 
brated surgeon — ^now it would only be a short 
time and he would be able to sell his papers. 

A thought almost made Peggy’s breath stop — 
why not have Pete for Christmas? and several 
other boys and girls — give a real Santa Claus 
party ! “I am sure Dick will arrange for them,” 
thought Peggy. 

Marie listened to the plans as she assisted 
Peggy in dressing. “Won’t it be splendid, 
Marie?” ejaculated Peggy. 


122 


PEGGY KIP 


“Indeed, yes, ma’am — ^but their nurse — ^we may 
not be able to take proper care of them?” 

“I have thought of everything,” answered 
Peggj'. “The East Porch shall have little white 
beds^ — one for each child. The sewing room shall 
be filled with toys — a real nursery! Isn’t it 
splendid? Dr. Winston will provide the nurse, 
and Mammy Jane will cook all the goodies that 
fill kiddies with delight ! You and I will arrange 
the games!” 

Clapping her hands in childish joy, Peggy 
laughed aloud. Marie’s heart was filled with 
happiness, for she had worried many hours over 
the silent Woman she loved so dearly. Now she 
was ready to go to any end to assist her mistress 
in this new project. 

The very first thrill of real pleasure, sweet 
without the bitter, had taken possession of Peggy 
Hazzard. What gives more real joy than the 
planning for the happiness of unfortunate chil- 
dren? 

The drive into the city seemed short to Peggy, 
so busy was her mind. At the Waldorf, shq 
found Anne waiting. A new Anne! Newly ac- 
quired wealth, and association with people known 
chiefly for their fast living and gay doings, told 
plainly that she was “burning the candle at both 
ends.” The marks of dissipation were plain. 


PEGGY KIP 


123 


“Oh, Peg ! I am so glad to see you ! Just been 
buzzing around ’til I have neglected you shame- 
fully. Seems this bunch, here in New York never 
gives me a minute to devote to out-of-town 
friends. When you once land in the society 
puddle it takes both hands and what little brains 
you possess to keep you from sinking! Wish we 
had time for a ‘high ball’ before Dick arrives — 
but wouldn’t dare try to sneak one! He is get- 
ting terribly good — prohibition has struck him. 
Eaises all kinds of Cain — ^here he is now — so glad 
you didn’t keep him waiting. Oh dear, he is 
such a grouch — at the least thing! I see him so 
seldom it is almost as exciting as making a date 
with another woman’s husband!” 

A blush Peggy tried hard to keep from man- 
tling her face caused Anne to exclaim 
“What wonderful coloring! There is nothing 
like country life — fresh air and plenty of sleep — 
to keep the roses in one’s cheeks!” 

Mastering the termor she felt in her throat, 
Peggy laughed at Anne’s gushing. 

“What a spoiled child you are!” answered 
Peggy. “I was wondering if you wouldn’t be the 
least bit ‘up stage’ over all the nice things the 
society columns are discovering in you. I should 
think you would be absolutely bursting with 
pride!” 


124 


PEGGY KIP 


The women seated themselves. Peggy continued: 
“I am so excited over my invitation to visit 
the poor little chaps! I am going to do my best 
to persuade Dick to lend me Pete and several 
others who are able to leave the hospital — ^for a 
few days. I will have a Xmas tree and a real 
Santa!” 

Instead of approval of and hearty co-operation 
with her plans, Anne gave Peggy a plain look 
of disgust. “Now, you can’t mean that you in- 
tend filling your house with those waifs? I have 
counted on a regular party at Dreamland ! I am 
so anxious for you to meet some of the people I 
know. Believe me, they are a live bunch — ‘no 
snails allowed!’ ” 

Before she had time to answer, Peggy recog- 
nized the distinguished figure of Dick making his 
way toward their comer. A greeting, and happy 
remarks congratulating both ladies upon their 
promptness, followed. 

“Glad you didn’t keep me waiting,” said Dick, 
smilingly. “Have a new case — am in consulta- 
tion at three o ’clock. ’ ’ 

“Oh! Then we will not have our visit to the 
little ones?” Peggy asked, the disappointment 
she felt expressing itself plainly in her voice. 

“Indeed yes,” replied Dick. “Dr. Ames, my 
assistant, will be delighted to db the honor to two 


PEGGY KIP 


125 


most charming young ■women. I am relying more 
and more each day on the young chap. He is as 
interested as I am in helping those poor little 
devils.” 

All during luncheon Peggy laid her plans for 
gmng Pete a real party. Dick was visibly 
pleased, and entered into the plans heartily, assur- 
ing her that Nurse Klane would be sent to look 
after the youngsters, and the cbamge would do 
her a world of good — she had been constantly in 
the hospital for a year. 

Anne took no part in the plans, only to say: 

“Well, Peg, I ■wish you joy, and I do hope 
none of your jewels ■will be missing!” 

No notice was taken of her last remark. Anne 
continued : 

“I am sorry, dear, that I aim unable to go with 
you to visit your new charges, but I have a date 
at 3:30. Too bad I can’t get interested in settle- 
ment work, poor kids, and so on!” 

Seating herself in her luxurious limousine, ■with 
orders to the chauffeur to drive to one of Broad- 
way’s pleasure palaces, Anne waved her jeweled 
hand to her husband, and blew a kiss from her 
finger tips to Peggy, who stood on the curb wait- 
ing for her car to drive up. 

“May I ride ■with you to the hospital?” asked 
Dick. 


126 


PEGGY KIP 


“Indeed yon may. Give James the direction.” 

“Children’s hospital, 10th Street and Lexing- 
ton Avenue.” 

Dick seated himself by the side of Peggy. The 
door slammed and the car moved down the 
avenue. 

The sun shone upon the ice-covered buildings. 
Piles of snow here and there glistened in the 
clear air. Hustling, bustling good-natured 
pedestrians threaded their way, jostling in the 
crowds. All the world seemed joyous! 

It is bom in every man to show tenderness 
and gentleness to woman. So Dick leaned back 
in the oar, Peggy’s hand held tightly in his. In 
a gentle> well modulated voice, he told her of his 
ambition, each cadence of the Southern drawl 
striking deep into the soul of the richly gowned 
woman by his side. 

Somehow, Peggy felt that the dreams he was 
so anxious to realize were her dreams, too. 
Surely, she was not an outsider — it was their 
dreams, with a common goal I They surely would 
do all these things together! She would help 
make his dreams come true ! 

At the hospital — ^how ditferent it all was from 
what Peggy had pictured. The rows of little 
white beds, many containing little patients with 
weary little faces drawn with pain. Others ready 


PEGGY KIP 


127 


to receive sufferers. Kind faced nurses, young 
and cheerful, were absorbed in the work before 
them. 

At the door Peggy’s heart bounded. She saw 
Dick going from one little ohap to another. She 
heard the glad cry go up from the children — his 
tenderness for the little ones as he bent over 
them, was wonderful! He had a special interest 
in each one; a new book for one; a game for an- 
other — he knew all about their play. 

“Here Midget,” he said to one, “you are to 
have the doll baby sure, today — I stopped at a 
toy store this morning.” 

The tears were very near the surface as Peggy 
watched a new Dick Winston — not the man she 
had tried to believe heartless, cynical and even 
egotistical. She saw plainly now the real man, 
giving his energy and wonderful store of knowl- 
edge to these unfortunate ones. 

Already she was perfectly at home with them. 
She found many things to talk of to them. 

At the very end of the room in a rolling chair, 
his back propped with pillows, was Pete. 

“How are you today, young man?” asked Dick. 

“Bully, Doc!” The little shrunken hand went 
quickly to his eyes in military greeting. 

Peggy stood by this mis-shapened creature and 
watched — his eyes fairly gleaming with joy over 


128 


PEGGY KIP 


the story book that ‘Doc’ had brought him yes- 
terday. She recognized one of the fairy tales 
that had filled her with joy years ago. 

The optimism of the boy impressed Peggy 
greatly, as she listened to him tell of his im- 
provement. 

“I tell you, Doc, I’ll soon walk as good as any- 
body. Even if my back does be bent and crooked, 
dat don’t matter — I’ll be on de job! I bet dey 
misses me ! I fines myself hollerin’ out : ‘Papers ! 
Buy a paper, mister! All ’bout de prize fight!’ 
Shuekens! I sure will be glad to see ’em once 
more!” 

The cheery voice ringing through the rooms 
made the children laugh with glee. A little Italian 
boy in a bed near by said to Pete : 

“Cheese it, yer aint sellin’ papers yet!” 

At each little bed a shining coin was given. 

“Come again to seel us, lady!” they called 
waving their hands. 

Peggy smiled her sweetest at them, and fol- 
lowed Dr. Winston to the library. A quiet, sweet 
faced nurse came forward. 

“Nurse 'Kane, Mrs. Hazzard is greatly inter- 
ested in our work here,” said Dick, as he intro- 
duced the two ladies. “I have a very important 
appointment, so I am leaving you two together. 

I am sure you will find much to discuss. Will 


PEGGY KIP 


129 


you show Mrs. Hazzard the entire place? We 
have just come from the ward.” 

The two women stood with hands clasped, each 
reading the soul of the other. It is difficult to 
take one’s heart out for another to see, but Nurse 
Kane read the heart of Peggy Hazzard — her in- 
terest in these children, her desire to help them — 
originated in her deep love for the man. 

Peggy did not realize the selfishness, hut, 
through this one channel she would wind herself 
about him, one common interest, until — before she 
could finish the thought, Peggy launched into her 
plans for the Christmas party. The eagerness 
and enthusiasm with which she spoke appealed to 
Nurse Kane. 

From room to room they went; then to the 
play ground, where many devices for physical 
development were installed, Peggy listening at- 
tentively to the woman explain the delicate ma- 
chinery. Several children were exercising their 
shrunken limbs, braced in steel net work — infan- 
tile paralysis victims. 

“Dr. Winston is working on a new brace — not 
nearly so heavy,” explained Nurse Kane. “If it 
proves a success it will eliminate much suffer- 
ing. The ones now in use seem much too heavy.” 

Peggy, realizing that she had taken up two 
hours of Nurse Kane’s time, tried to frame a 


130 


PEGGY KIP 


polite and cordial ending to her visit. With a 
promise to come again, and an assurance of co- 
operation in the good work being done, Peggy 
said good-bye. 

James was told to drive at once to a well- 
known toy store on lower Fifth Avenue. Here 
Peggy bought dolls, books, blocks and trains of 
cars that ran on a track, mechanical toys that 
wound up; some that would dance and turn som- 
ersaults — everything she could find to give pleas- 
ure to the shut-in children! Clerks were won- 
dering and admiring, the check was given on a 
well-known city bank. 

“The toys are to be delivered to the Children’s 
Hospital, 10th Street and Lexington Avenue.” 

’Ere she left the store, it was generally known 
that Mrs. John Hazzard, widow of the multi-mil- 
lionaire, was sending more than a hundred dol- 
lars’ worth of toys to the poor kids. 

In the depths of the luxurious limousine, Peggy 
paid little attention to the passing crowd. Her 
heart and soul were in deep communion. She 
was reaching out her passionate arms to mother- 
hood. 

It is within the power of all of us to rise and 
open the gates of a day such as our hearts desire. 
Ages may roll on, our very dust be dissolved, the 
earth shriveled like a scroll, but round the circle 


PEGGY KIP 


131 


of eternity rolls the wheels of life imperishable, 
unceasing' — and as the earth from the sun, so im- 
mortality drinks happiness from -yirtue, which is 
the smile upon the face of God. 

Peggy wove fancies. The brain-children were 
almost real! Bright little faces peeped from the 
shrubbery, in gay pranks of hide-and-seek. Joy- 
ous voices in childish glee echoed about the 
grounds. Her children, whose life could be filled 
with the great material blessings — and Oh, how 
she could love them! 

Peggy was brought suddenly back to earth and 
the empty arms that she had almost felt pressed 
to a baby form were lying idly by her side. 

James stood ready to assist her from the ear; 
Marie in the door. Yes, this was home^ — Dream- 
land — the envied estate of John Hazzard’s widow 
— but a lonely home for a woman with her heart’s 
desire unattainable. The knowledge that she was 
childless had taken hold of her — the litt^*^ faces 
could not be tom from her vision ! 

“Yes, Marie, in a f6w moments.” 

Dropping her wraps she proceeded at once to 
the dining room. Her loneliness was descending 
upon her with greater stress. The huge, round 
table, with service for one, had never so palled 
upon her. She found herself counting how many 
places could be made. She laughed aloud. 


132 


PEGGY KIP 


Marie, who always served her when she dined 
alone, looked startled. 

“I was only laughing at the erring of fate — or 
the comedy of life,” Marie. “Think of the 
thousands of mothers with more mouths to feed 
than they know how to provide for; think of the 
little stomachs that growl with emptiness! Yet 
here I sit — alone — ^no chick or child — ^no relative 
— not one in all the world to care! Isn’t it a 
tragedy? Or, maybe, who knows — a ‘comedy of 
errors. ’ Surely it was an error to give old man 
Smith ten children and have the county take care 
of them, and here I am, with empty arms!” 

After dinner, with coffee and cigarettes, Peggy 
sat in front of the library grate, trying to fight 
the shadows that were over her. 

The telephone pealed forth and brought her 
quickly to her feet. The receiver close to her 
ear, Peggy answered: 

“Yes, Dick. Oh, how good of you to call me! 
May you come down? Indeed yes ; come and save 
me from myself — ^I feel indigoish — a terrible case 
of blues. Now, don’t laugh! I mean it! Hurry 
up ! ” With a click the receiver went in place. 

Peggy stood all aglow. His voice! Soon she 
would feel his sweet presence ! 

Upstairs in her room she removed the smartly 
tailored suit, changing for a filmy gown of gray, 


PEGGY KIP 


133 


a clinging, sensuous affair, veiling, but revealing 
her slim figure. The golden bronze hair piled 
high upon her head glowed like ropes of gold. 

“You needn’t wait up for me,” Peggy an- 
nounced to Marie. Sincd she had learned of 
Marie ’s engagement to Thomas, Peggy gave them 
much time together. 

Love is the heart and soul of rich and poor! 

The maid and butler enjoyed their happy hours 
and found the same exquisite joy in planning 
their future. “Their cottage” created as many 
thrills of anticipation of wedded bliss as the 
plans of town houses or country estates. 

Promptly at 8 :30 Thomas announced Dr. 
Winston. With hearty greetings to Peggy, Dick 
announced : 

“I have a new car — a racer — drive myself — 
see ! Method in my madness — I can run down in 
less than an hour! The trains are beastly, and 
no use letting your chauffeur know everything 
you do!” 

“You havn’t had any dinner, have you Dick?” 
asked Peggy. 

Thomas, hanging the heavy overcoat in the hall, 
came to see if there were any orders. 

“Yes, Thomas, you may serve something light 
in here; Dr. Winston has not dined.” 

“I tell you. Peg,” Dick went on, “I chucked 


134 


PEGGY KIP 


dinner tonight. Went home — Anne was dining 
out. Too damn lonely for a chap to eat his dinner 
alone six nights in the week! Jumped into the 
car, so here I am — ready to be fed — my stomach 
— but most of all dear girl, my heart! Oh, in- 
deed, I am heart hungry ! ’ ’ 

The subject nearest Peggy’s heart was the 
cripple children she had visited in the afternoon, 
so she dove into it, discoursing upon each child. 

Dick leaned back in the sleepy-hollow chair, 
feasting his eyes upon the vision of loveliness, as 
she planned for the Christmas party. 

'‘What a mother you would make. Peg!” said 
Dick. “Too bad there are no little folks in this 
splendid home.” 

Smiling away the tears that were near the sur- 
face, Peggy replied: 

“Yes, Dick, I, too, think this place should re- 
sound to shouts of childish laughter. Today has 
convinced me that the real need of woman is 
motherhood! It is the source of life and perfect 
peace. The childless woman grows selfish be- 
yond any thought — self at the price of others! 
The largest, strongest arm has not the strength 
that a wee baby hand has in building castles of 
joy!” 

Moving over to the sofa, Dick placed his arm 
around Peggy. Every line of her body cried out 


PEGGY KIP 


135 


to him in the most elemental appeal of the female 
to the male. He longed to crush her passion- 
ately to him. Doll-like beauty had never appealed 
to his rich, sensuous nature ; he demanded more. 
The beauty of intellect, the spirit of flame, which 
could only be drawn from the deep wells of a 
human soul — were the qualities he most admired. 

Peggy had bared her soul — ^her nature. Since 
the day he came to “Dreamland” and discov- 
ered that Anne’s friend “Peg” was the same 
little country girl who had appealed to his boyish 
heart — ^Dick had admired her. Now he knew it 
was love that was fighting for the right to claim 
her. “Oh! to undo those years of youthful in- 
discretion — only to be free to fight in the open 
for this glorious creature!” debated Dick. 

With quickly beating hearts each recognized 
the temptation in physical contact. Beyond the 
will and inclination, beyond all the strength of 
reason, struggling from the close embrace, Peggy, 
white and trembling, whispered: 

“Go, Dick! Go! Go!” 

Long after the sound of the motor was lost on 
the stillness of the night air, the lonely woman 
sat before the dying embers. 

The morning sun crept in with its rays, casting 
shadows wherever it could find a crevice to pene- 
trate the gloom of the solemn room. 


136 


PEGGY KIP 


Holding her hands tightly clasped, and with 
tear-dimmed eyes, Peggy glanced around anx- 
iously. The prize-winning Persian eat slept in the 
low, cushioned chair. She lazily opened her eyes, 
stretching herself luxuriously, and slowing began 
her morning toilet. 

Scenting unhappiness. Miss Tabitha came 
down from her chair after rubbing her paws 
gently over her face, until she was assured her 
grooming was perfect — then jumped playfully 
into Peggy’s lap — ready for a romp. 

With a feeble effort not to disappoint her pet, 
Peggy toyed with the waving tail and long whis- 
kers untU the meows, softly given, showed satis- 
faction. 

Carefully turning out the lights, Peggy climbed 
the stairs. In her own room she undressed, and 
crept into bed. Her uppermost thought was : 

“Oh! to forget for one brief moment!” 

Two hours later, Marie announced: 

“Your bath is drawn. Madame, are you well? 
Your eyes are so heavy and the circles are very 
deep.” 

“I am quite well, Marie, I sat up much too late. 
You see, I have been keeping very early hours, 
and it will surely tell if beauty sleep is neglected.” 

The majil and breakfast were gone: through 
automatically. Marie removed the service. 


PEGGY KIP 


137 


Mammy Jane appeared in the door. 

“Now look heer, honey chile, yer aint eatin’ 
nuff to keep a bird alive. Seems to me yer apper- 
tite need sum: tonic. Dese dishes cums back to 
de kitchen jes as full as when dey lebes. How 
you spec to keep plump and pretty? If yer don’ 
eat nuffin I’se gwine to fix yer a dose of sumpin, 
I is!” 

“Oh, pshaw, Mammy, you and Marie must not 
worry about me. I am feeling fine. I promise 
to do better. I tell you make a rice pudding for 
luncheon ! ” 

“Ho! Ha!” laughed the old negro, “you aint 
forgit yer baby ways! Sho! I make a rice pud- 
din’, and furth’mo’, I specs yer to eat it!” 

“You are wanted at the ’phone. Ma’am,” 
Thomas summoned. , 

Strange, most of the joy had fled from the ex- 
pected summons! The hand trembled that held 
the receiver. Strugghng to be natural, Peggy 
forced a cheery: 

‘ ‘ Good morning, Dick ! Something wrong with 
Anne? You m,ust see me at once? Have a talk 
until me in regard to Anne? I don’t understand 
— is she ill? Eeally, Dick, you are dense! I am 
terribly worried — ^you seem in trouble, but — what 
can 1 do? Yes, it will be all right, I am sure. 


138 


PEGGY KIP 


Will expect you then about 12:30!” The voice 
trailed off into the distance. 

“Why should he come to discuss Anne, his 
wife? Surely, no man had the right to discuss 
his domestic affairs with the other woman!” 

A thousand thoughts crowded Peggy’s brain. 
She asked herself many times, over and over: 

“Can Anne be jealous — has she made a scene?” 

Quickly Peggy made a mental survey of every 
day since the eventful visit of Dr. Warwick and 
Dick. The hot blood pounded through her veins, 
causing her temples to throb madly. Self-accus- 
ing conscience condemned with fiery scathing epi- 
thets. 

The long drives over the country roads ; walks 
about the estate, and hours spent in the library, 
w'here she either improvised the strains of music 
he loved, or listened to him build his castles for 
the poor little cripples whom he loved — all these 
were mentally gone over. Minutely, every de- 
tail was thoroughly sifted. 

Peggy gave a sigh of deep concern — the world 
seemed made up of flat waste — of dull achings. 
Conviction was thrust upon her like the tearing 
of a snag which rent and twisted every current 
of her life. 


CHAPTER IX 


Had she heard aright? Surely Dick was under 
some vile influence. Divorce Anne! It could not 
be true! No words could Peggy utter — not a 
single sensible thing could she say. 

The questions Peggy wanted to ask, her brain 
refused to aid her. Each sentence seemed an in- 
sult to her intelligence. Finally, with great ef- 
fort, she managed to ask : 

“Why, Dick? Why?” The voice trembled so 
she could scarcely make herself heard. 

“Drinking! Yes, I have stood as much as any 
self-respecting man is called upon to endure! 
Last night I went home directly from here. At 
2 :30 my wife came in, beastly intoxicated — drunk 
— and it is not the first time! I have done all I 
can — now I am through ! No woman shall bring 
my name down in the gutter and disgrace not only 
herself, but me!” 

Walking hack and forth, Dick Winston made a 
sorry picture. The cigar he chewed moved ner- 
vously from one side of his mouth to the other. 

Mastering her nervousness with great effort, 
Peggy spoke deliberately and quietly: 

139 


140 


PEGGY KIP 


“Have you always been perfect, Dick? Is Anne 
to be condemned for this offense ? Isn ’t it partly 
your fault? Weren’t your marriage vows ‘for 
better or for worse?’ Why shouldn’t you help 
her? Why are men forgiven so much and women 
forgiven so little? Would she divorce you for 
the same cffense? How many thousands of good 
women fight their battles with King Alcohol? Do 
jmu think you are the only man whose wife has 
lost her footing? 

“Of course you have ‘lectured and laid down 
the law.’” Why not tr}'- a gentler way? Anne is 
just a child who has lost her head. She is drink- 
ing of poisoned waters offered by men and women 
older in years, and ages older in experience. She 
needs you, Dick ! She needs a strong hand to hold 
on to her — pull her up from the terrible pitfalls ! 
She is only one of hundreds who find too much 
money and leisure overbalancing their brain! 

“Self control is a hard lesson. I am shocked 
at you! The last man in the world to shirk his 
duty in yoxir profession — ^but Oh, Dick ! How quick 
you are to forsake the greatest duty given to man 
— save, protect your young wife! 

“Do you know, this morning after I had talked 
with you, I felt sure your wife had made a scene 
— all about your visits to Dreamland and all the 
splendid little tete-a-tetes we have enjoyed. I 


PEGGY KIP 


141 


felt yesterday, all through luncheon, that some- 
thing was wrong. Anne was not her cheerj’^ little 
self. She was striving very hard to get over the 
disagreeable hour — something was hiirting her!” 

It takes a woman to go way down into the real 
secret chamber and discover the skeletons. Mov- 
ing her head quickly to one side, Peggy continued : 

“I wonder, Dick, why there are no baby hands 
to help Anne smooth out the rough places? We 
all need a friend when we are sinking. Is there 
a better friend than a baby all your own? Most 
women resent devoted attention paid by their lord 
and master to another woman, even though that 
woman is your oldest and dearest friend. Heigh ! 
Ho! I say beware of your best women friends, 
where your husband is concerned. They are so 
apt to have a real personal interest in all your 
little shortcomings and feel in duty bound to 
sympathize in regard to any little blemishes that 
creep out in your character. They are not 
averse to cultivating bits of gossip to pour into 
hubby’s ears. 

“Oh, Dick! I am always doting on poor Mr. 
So-and-So — his wife fails to appreciate the chap 
— so off he goes to be consoled and sympathized 
with ! ’ ’ 

Straightening the ruffles about her wrist, a 


142 


PEGGY KIP 


gleam of pity, of self-abjection, Peggy pleadingly 
went on: 

“Ob! Forgive me if I have been the cause of 
any of your impatience with Anne! Let’s save 
her, Dick, yo^t, and I! We can — I know we can! 
You are not giving her a fair chance ! You exag- 
gerate the enonnity of the situation!” 

The appeal in Peggy’s voice found no answer- 
ing note. Dick had seated himself upon the arm 
of the chair in which she sat. His eyes faistened 
upon her face seemed to kindle an odd, strange 
emotion. Before it, Peggy quivered, marveling 
at the unexplainable torture that leaped through 
her body — setting her blood on fire ! Her breath- 
ing was uneven and hurried — she must save Anne 
at all costs ! 

Silence hung over them for a moment. Then 
unconsciously it seemed, his hand encountered 
hers. He gripped it tightly, he moved nearer to 
her. Around them the silence sang. 

“Peggy, I love you — I Imow you care! Life 
and love I offer you! Now won’t you take it?” 

She sprang like a tigeress from her chair. 

“No ! No ! A thousand times no !” I acknowl- 
edge I was foolish — I did care! Let me tell you, 
Dick, I was on the brink of a great sin, but some- 
thing stronger and better than I has saved me 
from myself! 


PEGGY KIP 


143 


“At first it was a craving for revenge — all for 
that summer in Kentucky! I bow my bead in 
shame. But at least, let me tell you truthfully — 
you were my first and only love! But now every 
feeling for you shall be crushed from my heart ! 
My happiness shall not be bought with the misery 
of another! Oh! I bate myself when I think of 
it all ! Anne is not the only poor lonely girl who 
has floundered in the sea of dissipation. 

“Oh, Dick! Be the big, kind, forgiving man 
I know you are ! Think of those little ones who 
love you and believe in your greatness! Go to 
your wife with the same gentleness I saw in you 
today — she will help you! Think what it would 
mean to her to be cast off ! ” 

A stem cloud passed over the handsome feat- 
ures. Dick drew himself up to his full six feet. 

“Peggy, you are unnerved! I will leave you. 
Think over all I have said. Eemember, I love you! 
I am sailing shortly for France. There, in the 
stricken country I will do something to alleviate 
the pain and suffering of war-ridden humanity. 
I may learn to forget my mistakes.” 

Mute, white, drawn lips refused to speak. 
Peggy’s appeal was wordless, but it reached the 
heart of the man, who, with stubborn coldness, 
left her standing — alone! She heard the outer 
door close. Dick was gone ! 


144 


PEGGY KIP 


A new resolution found birth in the soul of 
Peggy. A new understanding. Cheer — ^kind 
words and deeds, with justice, would be her under- 
taking. To well she knew the misery of selfish 
dreams. 

The next week was filled with preparations for 
Pete and three other little ones. Nurse Kane 
had written she would arrive the; day before 
Christmas — Christmas Eve — and spend one week. 

After long, deliberate meditation, Peggy seated 
herself to write another invitation to Anne. How 
different! The guilty memory of the deep laid 
plan to be avenged for the cruel disappointment 
of a youthful romance ! Today — a troubled heart 
sent an appeal for Anne to pack her bags and 
come for a real visit. 

“Help me, dear, with the kiddies,” is the way 
Peggy put it. “Of course, there will be a bunch 
of grownups — have in mind some of the ‘live 
ones’ ” — ^how she hated the term, but she knew it 
would appeal to Anne — “who used to accept all 
invitations to Dreamland. Now, do let me hear 
from you at once. I will not take a refusal!” 

All Peggy’s thoughts were in one channel — the 
redemption of Anne! But how to begin? The 
great love in her soul for Dick was there to stay ! 
She would gladly tear it from her by the roots. 


PEGGY KIP 


145 


She realized fully the degradation that such pas- 
sions could lead one to. 

At last Peggy was alive to a true understand- 
ing. She knew now that happiness is never real 
or lasting when bought by underhanded or illicit 
deeds. The only true joy is cleanliness of pur- 
pose — with love in the faith of character. The 
sanction of man and the smile of God must be 
upon two who choose their paths along life’s 
highway. A castle built upon a shaky foundation 
of a demolished or ruined building, is unsteady 
and easily torn down. It cannot stand ! 

A life — a home — built on broken family ties is 
bound to be filled with heartaches and disappoint- 
ments for those who embark in the frail craft to 
enter the sea of life. For the journey is at best 
made upon stormy waters. Here and there the 
glassy smoothness is interrupted by an unex- 
pected storm, and only the firmness of the boat 
assures the safety of the voyage. A floundering 
and clashing of wills must be expected, but the 
efforts to find peace and happiness are in vain, 
unless clean thoughts and a clean foundation 
crown the beginning of the journey. Without this, 
a smash — a household drifting against the rocks, 
discord — alas ! Two lives ruined, maybe children 
made to suffer for sins they know not of! 

With great hollow eyes and blanched cheeks. 


146 


PEGGY KIP 


Peggy drew herself in a huddle of fear from the 
picture that filled her mind as the enormity of the 
sin she had come so near was thrust upon her. 
“Life may totally change in the twinkling of an 
eye, and there are times when we realize the full 
purport of the event by which the change is 
wrought and throw up our hands in uncondi- 
tional surrender.” So she came to a full under- 
standing of herself — the careful analysis she had 
made gave her no thrills of pride — she saw plainly 
the great ego that possessed her daily life, blazing 
forth in all its hideousness. Now she knew that 
Dick Winston, in his selfish desire, was asking her 
to be a party to his sin — the sin of deserting his 
young wife who was in need of him — whom he had 
promised to protect through sickness and health — 
now, in this her great illness, (for surely it’s only 
a lack of strength when one succumbs to craving 
and inordinate desire), he was deserting her! 

“Thank God!” breathed Peggy, reverently, “I 
have found myself ! I am master of my soul ! Is 
a woman able to judge her own soul or can God 
alone do that? The hardened sinner may fail to 
feel the ache and sting of wrong doing — ^but to 
those w'ho are learning to still the small, wee voice 
of conscience with excuses, good or bad, for deeds 
that their better selves are crying down, God 
sounds a warning so compelling that ere the sinner 


PEGGY KIP 


147 


knows, he is listening* to reason — finds the path 
that leads him right and sends his message of 
good cheer, to other poor, unhappy beings, lifting 
them up, helping to bear burdens that seem much 
too heavy for their weak shoulders.” 

Peggy Hazzard’s hungry heart went reaching 
out, heart and soul singing for joy! 

“The mail man ! Oh ! the sun porch is wonder- 
ful — those four little white beds with blue rugs 
by each, Ma mm y Jane, so important, overseeing 
it all! She says, ‘Thomas never did know noth- 
in ’ ’bout chillun and he better learn right now ! ’ ” 

With all thoughts of self put away, Peggy 
worked energetically, filled with interest in toys 
and warm clothing. The Christmas tree was to 
be in the grand ballroom. 

The days passed quickly. Peggy scanned the 
mail with eager interest, hoping for an answer 
to the note dispatched more than a week ago. 

“What was to be the next move if Anne refused 
the invitation?” thought Peggy. The blood 
rushed to her guilty cheeks. “There must be a 
way!” 

Peggy had had no word from Dick. True, his 
morning greeting and good-night chat were sorely 
missed. With a chastened soul she prayed fer- 
vently for strength and courage to go through the 
valley of tomorrows! Self was fighting hard! 


148 


PEGGY KIP 


There were times when she was tempted to call 
the familiar number, “Madison 264.” She re- 
peated in an undertone a force that ignored her 
cool, sane reasoning, beat at her will and clam- 
ored for what he olfered. Then the face of Anne 
stole in to check the impulse. 

A woman who loves, however erring, can never 
be entirely selfish, for love has a humanizing in- 
fluence. A true passion makes self-sacrifice easy. 
The mistakes of woman are almost always the 
result of her confidence in the truth and her faith 
in good, as she finds shown by man — seldom does 
she see the real man! 

Peggy reasoned that her love was no new thing. 
Her faith and confidence in Dick were the result of 
what she had found in him. He had found a toy to 
amuse him through his summer vacation — now the 
crisis of the eventful years was reached. 

Thank God, tears were flowing freely down her 
white dieeks — ^her great and passionate desire to 
live her life freely was ended! Man’s laws must 
be obeyed ! 

The letters piled upon a silver tray seemed to 
smile satisfaction. Quickly scanning the rich sta- 
tionery, a breath of anticipation came, for she held 
the well-known school girlish envelope, whose 
arrival had been so anxiously looked for. Tear- 


PEGGY KIP 


149 


ing the end off quickly, with beating heart, she 
read : 

“Dear Peg: Please come to me as soon as 
you get this. Oh! How I need you! Anne.” 

‘ ‘ Thomas, have J ames at the door with the car 
as quickly as possible,” ordered Peggy. 

Marie assisted in the quick change of dress — the 
sable coat and muff were her husband’s last 
Christma's gift — the limousine her birthday gift. 
His thoughtfulness and generosity were every- 
where. Strange, that, of late, Peggy seemed more 
aware of how good John Hazzard had been — evi- 
dence of his devotion crowded her memory. 

Peggy gave James the number of a most fash- 
ionable apartment house situated far up River- 
side Drive. 

“1 am anxious to reach there, so drive as speed- 
ily as you feel safe,” were Peggy’s words to 
James. 

Along the shore road the car fairly flew. Across 
the bridge it moved more slowly, and through 
crowded streets. Gay taxis — white, yellow and 
black — darted past. Threading his way care- 
fully, James drove through the narrow canyon 
between sl^y scrapers. 

Above the sound of incessant labor — the whir- 
ring of electric drills, rattling of derricks, of hoist- 
ing the huge steel beams that framed the wonder- 


150 


PEGGY KIP 


ful structures which have made Manhattan Sky- 
line the most wonderful in the world. New build- 
ings everywhere. A hubbub of humanity, each 
busy with his own problems of life — up Fifth 
Avenue in all its Christmas beauty. The palaces 
of jewels and gorgeous merchandise displayed to 
the eager gaze of Christmas shoppers, were all in 
evidence. 

At One Hundred and Tenth Street the car 
turned westward across to the drive. The cold, 
dark waters of the Hudson sent a chill along the 
deserted thoroughfare. 

In front of a palatial building, Italian in con- 
struction, the ear stopped, A lane, with the grass 
blown from nipping winds, was partly covered in 
snow which added to the uninmting coldness of 
the two marble statues which stood guard at the 
entrance. 

The heavy door swung back. A uniformed man 
in blue, and countless brass buttons, appeared. 

The card Peggy gave, was at once recognized. 
The doormen in fashionable apartments know well 
the names in the millionaire class. 

At the tenth floor the elevator stopped. A neat 
colored maid opened the door. 

“Mrs. Winston is expecting you. I am sorrj- 
to say she has one of her bad spells today. You 
will go to her bedroom.” 


PEGGY KIP 


151 


Through the foyer into a small coat room the 
maid relieved her of her wraps. 

Peggy took in every minute detail. The living 
evidence of newly acquired wealth. Furniture of 
several periods in intimate association ; the costly 
Turkish rugs clashed painfully with a modem tea 
car and some Japanese hric-a-brac. The oil paint- 
ings in huge shadow boxes looked frowning down 
upon a cheap print, neighbor to a water color 
made by an amateur artist. The very furniture 
in this trembling household screamed the incom- 
patability of the two who were floundering in the 
sea of domestic trouble. 

Anne threw herself hysterically into Peggy’s 
arms. She was untidy and disgusting to look at 
in her half-maudlin condition. 

“Serve cocktails, Susan — newly made ones,” 

The room was in confusion. Chairs and lounge 
were covered with stockings, lingerie, corset and 
shoes. The evening gown worn the night before 
had been flung over a chair ; the sparkling beads 
were strewn over the floor in careless extrava- 
gance. The dresser and chiffonier were covered 
with crowding toilet articles, and open cream jars 
of scarlet make-up, the traces of which had not 
been removed from Anne’s lips. The black bead- 
ing on her eyelashes was streaked over her face. 
A jewel box stood open, filled with showy jems — 


152 


PEGGY KIP 


diamonds, rubies and emeralds, glaring at each 
other. 

The whole room spoke volumes. It told the 
story of extravagance, discontent and dissipation 
more plainly than any words. Even the odor of 
Houbagant’s expensive scent, profusedly used to 
eliminate the sickening odor of cigarettes and 
whiskey, whispered the unhappy and unhealthy 
condition. 

Peggy listened as the woman poured out all 
her wrongs — real and imaginary. _ 

The cocktails were served in expensive glasses, 
on a silver tray, the silver shaker frosted with ice. 
Greatly against her inclination, Peggy drank part 
of one, watching, with dismay, Anne, as she took 
three cocktails, and innumerable cigarettes, light- 
ing one from the other, proving the nervous state 
into which she had fallen. 

The full influence of liquor began to have its 
telling effect. Anne snifiled and wailed at some- 
thing she must confide to some one. She couldn’t 
stand the burden longer. 

When Peggy softly implored her to tell what 
was hurting her, a wail come forth that sounded 
loud and long. 

“Oh! I can’t tell you. Oh! I can’t!” 

Soothing the sobbing creature as best she could, 
Peggy watched the maid in her effort to put the 


PEGGY KIP 


153 


room in some semblance of order — all the while 
trying to form some definite plans. 

Drowsiness was overtaking Anne, but with great 
effort, Peggj^ made her understand that she was 
to come on Wednesday to Dreamland. 

‘ ‘ Come for a nice long visit, ’ ’ begged Peggy. 

The time was set and Anne promised Peggy to 
be there for luncheon. 

“Sure, dearie,” and the voice trailed away in 
a drowsy mumble. 

A great wave of relief passed through Peggy 
Hazzard, as she filled her lungs with God’s- pure, 
fresh air. The odor of stale drink was hard to 
be rid of. She could imagine a whiff passed 
through the car now and then as she was driven 
homeward. Her mind was busy making and un- 
making plans to aid poor, misguided Anne. 

“She has only played with fire — a temptation 
that may come to anyone at any time!” thought 
Pegg3^ “Had Cjesar’s wife lived in this fast and 
unrestrained day, she might have yielded to some 
beckoning sport. Some things are between one’s 
self and one’s God.” 

So Peggy gave herself unreservedly to the in- 
stinct that causes a woman to cast her sympathy 
with the woman who has undergone suffering 
caused by a man. No one gains anything by 
dodging the truth. So Peggy’s decision was to 


154 


PEGGY KIP 


act definitely and act at once. The one big thing 
that loomed above and beyond all else was the 
guilty part she may have played in Anne ’s undo- 
ing. The real retribution of a soul is the honesty 
of purpose in undoing what seems to have been a 
wrong. 

The lights of Dreamland flickered through the 
leafless trees. A new feeling pervaded Peggy’s 
being. Her restless soul had at last found secur- 
ity. When once a woman makes up her mind to 
do the right thing — to be honest with herself — 
she is strong and unchangeable. 

The warm, soft glow of the librarj’- lamps shed 
a rich radiance. 

Peggy no longer moved with tired feet. Her 
duty was constantly before her. The duty of 
every human being to another — a helping, saving 
hand in weakness. 

She was over with dinner in a hurry. She ate 
with evident relish ; she had decided upon her first 
move. 

“I sho’ is proud to see you eat sumpin’.” It 
was Mammy Jane’s happy voice. “Yes been act- 
in’ like a ailin’ bird fer so long dat I done almos’ 
gib up in despair ’bout yer, honey chile.” Mammy 
was speaking from her place behind Peggy’s 
chair, where she insisted upon standing when no 
company “wuz round.” 


PEGGY KIP 


155 


“Oh ! Yes, Mammy, I feel splendid, and really,. 
I am still hungry!” 

“Well! Well! Don’t dat beat the Jews! How 
yer don’ fine yer appetite? But yer done eat nuff 
now ! I’ll jes hah Marie take a little supper on de 
tray to yer room. Bless de Lord, honey. I’ll be 
mighty proud to see dem roses cum back to yer 
cheeks. Don’t beliebe in de roses what comes in 
boxes — what yer call natral beauty is de kind ! ’ ’ 

With a genuine squeeze of love, Peggy gave the 
old woman assurance that she would surely eat 
enough, and he a real good “honey chile.” 

With a little nervous laugh, Peggy held the 
receiver, and gave the number of Dick’s club. 
Anne had told her he was staying there, for he had 
a case of dumps and had taken Jenkins and his 
belongings there. 

While waiting for the number to he given, the 
whining, thick-tongued utterances of Anne, and 
the stench of oriental perfume, mixed with stale 
drinks and tobacco almost scented her own 
library, so deeply was she impressed with the 
scene of the afternoon. 

“Oh! Yes, I wish to speak to Dr. Eichard 
Winston. ’ ’ 

The voice at the other end of the line answered : 

“A moment please.” 

“Yes, this is Dr. Winston.” 


156 


PEGGY KIP 


“Dick! I must see you as soon as possible! 
Yes and No! Listen, Dick, I went to see Anne 
today!” 

“Did sbe bear tbe word ‘damn!’ ” wondered 
Dick. 

“But, Dick, you must speak of ber. Listen, 
dear, come to me just as soon as you can. Ob! 
don’t fail me now! It is for myself! I am ask- 
ing ! You said if I ever needed you, to call you — 
if I ever wanted you. Now, dear, I need you,” 
with a sob in ber voice — “and Dick, I want you!” 

The band that placed tbe receiver on tbe book 
was shaking. 

Peggy herself trembled, pained as if with ague. 
Lighting a cigarette, she walked nervously back 
and forth, blowing the smoke thoughtfully. 

“Oh ! if he does not come!” 

At the piano she let her fingers wander idly 
over the keys, the natural music — soul-stirring 
notes of improvised themes — ^floating through the 
spacious rooms. 

Marie, busy with her evening duties, knew that 
her mistress was in a thoughtful mood. 

“Thomas, she never plays like that unless she 
is filled with sad memories,” said Marie. “Oh, 
dear! How I wish something would happen to 
make her as happy as you and I are ! I bless the 
day I went into her service.” 


PEGGY KIP 


157 


A nod of approval came from Thomas, who was 
always ready to voice any praise bestowed upon 
“the Missus.” 

Peggy stood at the window with the heavy 
drapery drawn aside, her eyes set upon the road, 
watching and waiting. 

At last the searchlight of an automobile could 
be seen. Peggy watched with fascination — the 
whir of the engine was drawing nearer ! 

“Oh! Would the car turn into the drive lead- 
ing to Dreamland?” 

Her face pressed against the cold glass, a breath 
of real thanksgiving — Peggy knew the car had 
stopped. 

“He has not failed me!” 

Peggy heard Thomas receiving Dr. Winston in 
the outer hall. She could not move ! 

In the doorway the tall form stood out against 
the softly lighted drapery — so still — she could 
imagine a life-size painting was before her. 

A real prayer for courage instantly filled the 
soul of Peggy Hazzard. With extended hands she 
crossed the room to meet the man who meant all 
the world to her — but she was putting him out of 
her life forever. 

“I knew you would come!” 

With her chair drawn close to his, in front of 
the open fire, with diplomacy given in this great 


158 


PEGGY KIP 


hour of need, Peggy led up to her subject. She 
hedged for information like a diplomat; argued 
like a judge. She fought for her points. 

Finally anger seemed to have died out of Dick’s 
words. 'The great egotism of the man was show- 
ing in most of his utterances. He felt the blot 
upon his own name. The great trouble was his 
fear of disgrace for himself! Not one real word 
of pity or thought for the reclaiming of his young 
wife! He was the injured party! The one firm 
thing in his mind was freedom! He would 
divorce Anne! 

Withefring contempt was in h!is well chosen 
words — ^words so cruel that the woman whom he 
had vowed to love and protect would cringe in 
fear had she heard the cutting denunciation, aside 
from the criticism of her drinking. 

“Besides all this,” continued Dick in a trem- 
bling voice : “I am fully aware of a week-end spent 
at a certain roadhouse with a male companion ! ’ ’ 

Shame on you, Dick Winston! You would 
blacken your wife’s character? Men have strange 
codes of honor!” 

“I am sorry, but I am going to be fair with you. 
I will fight in the open and I will win! 1 am 
going to save Anne!” 

The slam of the car door sent a chill through 


PEGGY KIP 


159 


Peggy’s veins. She would not acknowledge fail- 
ure. Standing the window she watched the two 
red tail lights as the racing car went madly oyer 
the graveled road. The light died out of her eyes, 
her hands unclasped. Peggy sank upon the floor 
in blessed oblivion. 


CHAPTER X 


The kiddies were having a wonderful luncheon. 
Harmless dainties had been provided. 

Nurse Kane, Marie and Peggy were enjoying 
the happy banter and smiling faces. The young- 
sters seated around the table bubbled with glee. 
There was no sign of the deformed limbs that 
were carefully wrapped and comfortably tucked 
underneath the table. 

“Oh! This is splendid!” came from the chil- 
dren in one voice. 

When Peggy announced that Mammy J ane was 
coming in to tell them some of the tales she used 
to tell to her when she was a little girl, they fairly 
shouted with glee. 

“I liked the Mammy stories best of all,” said 
Peggy, “and I think you will, too.” 

Mammy, in her best gingham and bandana, 
came in smiling, a broad expanse of white apron 
vying with the whiteness of her teeth. 

“Now you ehillun don’ be quiet. Gib me dat 
cheer right dar — dat’s it — now listen to me : 

“Once upon a time ” — 

Peggy slipped out to go for a last look over the 
160 


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PIEGGY KIP 


161 


suite chosen for Anne — ^the bedroom, dressing 
room and bath. A sitting room all in gray and 
green brocade ; a low table for books underneath ; 
the floor lamp, which shed its soft glow over a 
comfy arm chair, that invited you to loll and read. 
A broad couch before the fire lent the last touch 
of cosy comfort afforded guests who tarried at 
Dreamland. The small jeweled clock pointed to 
the hour of Anne’s arrival. 

Peggy went out on the porch to watch for the 
ear. James had been sent to the station. He 
would drive as rapidly as possible, for it was 
very cold. Yes, there they were. The car turned 
into the drive. 

There was a dull thud of pain in Peggy’s heart, 
but she smiled bravely, and gave a warm and 
hearty welcome to Anne, who was being assisted 
from the car. 

“Oh! There you are, old dear!” exclaimed 
Anne. “Too bad I didn’t get down last week 
as I promised, but the bunch kept me on the go ! 
I really was sorry to disappoint you, dearie — just 
another one of my bad habits. Dick says I have 
so many that one more or less doesn’t matter! 
But, Peg, I am right on time whenever a drink is 
ordered! Get me, kid?” 

The laugh that accompanied her witticism 


162 


PEGGY KIP 


grated upon the ears of Peggy, who forced a 
smile. 

With her a,nn around the poor, half-intoxicated 
creature, Peggy helped her to the perfectly ap- 
pointed room waiting for her. 

“Thomas and Marie will see to your luggage,” 
Peggy informed her. “Marie is to attend you. 
I remember how much you liked her when you 
were here before. Now, Anne, don’t you think 
you had best have a little rest? Forty winks and 
a shower do wonders ! Then get on your prettiest 
house frock. I have a genuine surprise. We are 
not to lunch alone. There are some splendid 
chaps at the club. I have invited two over to meet 
‘the prettiest, most fascinating little married 
woman in New York!’ Isn’t it delightful the pep 
it puts into a crusty old Crcesus: — ^the very thought 
of a flirtation with another man’s wife?” 

A real gleam of interest in Anne ’s eyes showed 
Peggy at once that her tactics were right. 

“This butterfly must have admiration,” thought 
Peggy. 

With clumsy fingers Anne unhooked her gown, 
which bore the mark of an exclusive Fifth Avenue 
tailor, patronized only by the wealthiest women, 
anxious to have fhe last word in extreme styles. 

Peggy feverishly endeavored to keep up a rapid 


PEGGY KIP 


163 


fire of conversation, reciting bits of society gos- 
sip, dwelling carefully upon interesting accounts 
of the enviable chaps who were to help her make 
Anne’s visit happy enough that she would forget 
Broadway with its winking, blinking electricity 
that was so alluring — always hinting of adventure 
to young and old. There is no respecter of class 
or age. 

The evil eye is often at the very top of some 
wonderful building. There it smiles invitation 
to passers-by. Men and women go their unevent- 
ful way, cold and unresponsive to the eye, but 
youth, with mad, red blood coursing through his 
veins, stops to admire. Thrills of adventure, an- 
ticipation of gay revels take possesion — some are 
numbered among “the merry merry” for years; 
indigestion, puffed eye lids and red noses, accom- 
pany a broad expanse of waist line and pounds of 
undesirable flesh. These proclaim their right to 
be classed as “First Nighters,” a “Broadway 
Chap,” and so forth. 

Others who stop to look and admire the eye, 
weaker in nature, form the habit of drink. Mil- 
lions of men and women have gone down in deg- 
radation and death following the lights. The 
eye away up twinkles on, saying: 

“7 did it ivith my little twinkle!” 


164 


PEGGY KIP 


Peggy went downstairs — a new smile. She was 
sure of success! She would keep her own council. 
Anne must never know that the help of Paul 
Harvey and Bob Stanley had been earnestly 
solicited in her behalf. “The recreation of Anne” 
was the watchword of the three conspirators. 

Stanley, forty-five years young (for age had 
left no marks), with several millions to his credit 
— the sought-after by designing mamma’s with 
marriageable daughters. 

Paul, the happy-go-lucky, who danced his way 
into hearts and homes of the wealthy; no house 
party being complete without him. He planned 
new features of entertainment ; he kept the guests 
in good-natured excitement. There was not a 
“Bud” or matron who had failed to crave his 
favor and the preferred guest list of many social 
secretaries was headed by Paul Harvey, society 
diplomat. 

The small studio apartment that Paul called 
home saw little of him, for his invitations to the 
best homes kept him domiciled amid luxury. The 
meager allowance from an old maid aunt was 
greatly augmented by appreciative remembrances 
from his wealthy friends. 

This description of Paul Harvey may seem to 
place him in the “lounge lizard” class, but he was 


PEGGY KIP 


165 


as far away from the dance palace idler as a Wall 
Street broker is from a subway guard ! His one 
talent was “personality,” and he used it in a per- 
fectly legitimate way. 

Paul was a clean thinking and honorable man, 
never guilty of flirtations with married women. 
With all the frothy stuff that appeals to the ex- 
citable class of unhappy wives, he knew perfectly 
well how far to go. They were entertained to the 
extent that their real curiosity was kept con- 
stantly on the quiver, wondering when the real 
declaration would be forthcoming. He had a 
wonderful knack for locating the girls who had 
been out more than the prescribed two seasons, 
assuring the hostess that there would be no wall 
flowers. In every social set there should be a 
Paul Harvey. 

At this crisis in affairs Peggy knew there must 
be two distinct types — wealth and entertainment 
— diversion. Anne must be kept busy each mo- 
ment. She must not be allowed to lapse into 
dreams. 

After the week with the kiddies, Paul Harvey 
and Bob Stanley would be house guests at Dream- 
land. Those included in week-end invitations 
were carefully chosen. 

Notes of acceptance were coming in, expressing 


166 


PEGGY KIP 


delight that Mrs. Hazzard would take part in 
the winter activities. 

Marie was adhering strictly to all the instruc- 
tions so carefully given. She had chosen a won- 
derful creation of chiffon that revealed all the 
dainty lines of Anne ’s rounded figure. With com- 
petent hands she wound the wealth of black hair 
in a coronet. There was no small detail left un- 
done that added to the exquisite toilet. 

The reflection in the long mirror filled Anne 
with satisfaction. No trace of dissipation. 

“Madame, you are very beautiful,” proclaimed 
Marie. 

The compliment of so good a judge of beauty 
pleased her visibly. So, with a smile of gratitude, 
Anne went down stairs to meet those already as- 
sembled in the library. 

A whiff of oriental perfume, the merry laugh 
of a child, and Anne burst upon them. ' 

“Am I late? Oh, Peggy! Faithfully I promise 
not to keep you waiting another time!” 

For two whole days Bob Stanley, old in the 
arts of society, was almost constantly Anne’s 
companion, mentally admiring the beautiful 
creature. 

Paul Harvey was trying to find out why he had 


PEGGY KIP 


167 


failed to be introduced to Anne during the Horse 
Show. 

“Too bad I was not included in the lot of chaps 
I saw being invited to Miss Amber’s box,” he 
remarked. “I could never in the world forget my 
disappointment ! Then good luck came my way — 
a special invitation from dear Peggy, who always 
does the right thing.” 

Luncheon was pleasantly gone through. There 
were no still moments. There were quick and 
ready answers to the wit of each individual. One 
single cocktail was served. The coffee and cigar- 
ettes after luncheon were partaken of in the 
library. 

“Can’t we have just one little drink, Peg?” 
begged Aime. 

Liquors were ordered. Peggy watched Anne 
gulping the stimulant, but she had planned every 
hour of her campaign. 

“Now we must join the youngsters for awhile,” 
announced Peggy. 

Miss Ames, a professional at entertaining chil- 
dren, had the little ones in a splendid humor. She 
knew the very things that pleased them most. 

Pete, propped in his chair, begged for a story 
about sea captains and pirates. Another little 
fellow wanted to hear about Indians. A dark. 


168 


PEGGY KIP 


glorious-eyed little girl, with a big doll clasped to 
her bosom, wanted to hear all about Santa Claus. 

Peggy and the men were happy in childish de- 
light, going from one to the other, chatting freely 
with the little cripples. 

Anne stood watching them. The little girl was 
near enough to touch her dress. She looked long- 
ingly: 

“Oh! You p’ity lady! Just like the pic-rre 
book Nurse Kane shows me.Walk way by, let me 
see the fail on your dress!” 

Even the child’s admiration appealed to Anne. 
She paraded the length of the room several times, 
to the great delight of the little girl, who called to 
the others to look at the “picture book lady.” 

The afternoon fairly flew by. The lights were 
turned on. The youngsters were growing drowsy. 

Nurse Kane said it was time for all little boys 
and girls to be tucked in. 

In the hall the men were saying good night. A 
promise to be up early in the morning was made — 
a gallop over to the club for breakfast. 

All through dinner Peggy tried to speak to Anne 
of Dick. Oh! How she wished Anne would 
broach the subject so near her heart — the pending 
divorce, the disagreeable gossip — everything! 

A dangerous moment — time stood still ! 


PEGGY KIP 


169 


Peggy was floundering. She wanted to strike 
the vital spot! Was this the psychological mo- 
ment? She knew Anne's shortcomings. She was 
leaving nothing undone that would help so that 
the very depth of her nature would reveal itself. 

Peggy could see far beneath the shallow surface 
— the real woman had failed to be awakened! 
’Twas only the pleasure loving, inimitable, re- 
sponsive creature that flitted from place to place, 
in search of admiration. Was it time now to 
grasp the demon — shake her until she realized she 
was a woman, with a woman’s responsibility? 

“Oh! Peg, dearie, let’s have a drink! You 
were mighty stingy with your cocktails at noon. 
Are you preparing for prohibition? I’ll bet you 
have plenty of the real stuff stored in the cellar ! ’ ’ 

Anne enumerated the numbers of her friends 
who were well provided against the want of a 
drink by the death of J ohn Barleycorn. 

Thomas came to the touch of the bell. 

Peggy ordered two cocktails ! 

“Oh, Peg! Why not a little rye?” 

Not changing the order given, Peggy dismissed 
the servant. She knew this was her hour. The 
first storm must be braved ! She must not 
weaken ! 

“Come, Anne dear, sit here on the lounge by 


170 


PEGGY KIP 


me— close. I want to feel your presence — ^your 
hand must be in mine. I wonder if you will ever 
know and realize what this moment means to 
me?” 

“Oh, Peg! Cut it out! Don’t preach! You 
are a good fellow, but you can ’t fool me ! Haven ’t 
I read of the gay diddings at Dreamland! I’ll bet 
you are rejoicing that your period of mourning is 
over! Sure, you had to pay respect to the rich 
old duffer — God rest his soul!” 

Stung by the turn affairs had taken, the clinking 
of glasses help to fill the gap. Truly, consterna- 
tion was in Peggy’s soul. 

Lifting her glass, Anne said : 

“Here’s to life! May it be a merry one^ — if 
not — a short one !” 

Peggy’s pained face seemed to echo the hurt 
that lodged in her heart. She forced a smile. 
With the glass raised she bowed her head, but not 
one drop passed her lips. She set the glass on 
the tray. 

“Don’t want it. Peg?” 

Seizing the stem of the dainty glass, Anne 
greedily disposed of the contents. 

“Whoever is your bartender, he is an artist!” 

The glowing cheeks, sparkling eyes and glib 


PEGGY KIP 


171 


tongue soon told the effect of the “harmless” 
cocktail. 

Peggy listened to Anne ramble on, about the gay 
life she led, trying hard to find the courage that 
she must have to tell Anne of the things she bad 
set herself to tell. 

Silence fell between them. A deep sigh came 
from Anne, who was curled comfortably in a huge 
arm chair. Keaching for Peggy’s hand, Anne 
placed it to her heated face. 

‘ ‘ Oh, Peg ! I have to tell somebody ! You seem 
to be the only real human being I know. I believe 
you would understand — ^would help me. Oh, dear 
Peg, I do need help!” 

Crawling from the chair to a foot stool at 
Peggy’s feet, Anne laid her head upon her knees. 
The tears she tried hard to hide were coursing 
down her cheeks. 

Peggy bent over her. With arms about the sob- 
bing girl, she whispered: 

“What is troubling you, dear? Tell me every- 
thing — ^keep nothing back. I am your friend. If 
I can help you I will, trust me dear. There is 
much for you and me to work out together ! ’ ’ 

Her voice shaking with sobs, Anne replied: 

“Did you know Dick is getting a divorce — and 


172 


PEGGY KIP 


why?” A tight squeeze of hands. “Let me tell 
you quick, dear. It is all true, every word!” 

Peggy waited for the paroxism of weeping to 
pass. Raising the frightened face, she kissed the 
repentant, erring one. 

“Yes, dear — I know! I sent for Dick the day I 
saw you in your home. I knew then something 
should be done!” 

Anne, biting her knuckles, was trying to still 
the sobs. She whispered inaudibly: 

“What did he tell you? Oh ! Tell me the words 
— every word! I can’t bear this suspense!” 

Between the two women was a depth of under- 
standing as they gazed into each other’s eyes. 

“He said you were drinking — running with a 
fast set, and that you had spent week-ends at a 
roadhouse with some one!” 

Peggy watched the effect of her words. A 
divorce on this evidence would be easily obtained 
even in New York. 

A stem calmness had settled upon the poor 
creature, whose sins had found her out. What 
would this world say about her when Dick divorced 
her? 

“Oh, Peg! Can a man and woman ever be just 
friends. Doesn’t it always begin easily — ^natu- 
rally — and end either too soon or too late? I must 


PEGGY KIP 


173 


tell you the whole story. Oh, Peggy ! Believe me, 
dear, I must have one friend — some one who will 
believe every word ! I promise to tell the truth ! ’ ’ 

An answering embrace, and Anne continued : 

“You know how I have been left to choose and 
make friends. How wrapped up Dick is in the 
cripples — sometimes I think I loathe the name! 
For a while it didn’t matter much — it was all so 
new to me that I was fascinated with the glitter. 
The more lights, wine and laughter, the more I 
liked everjdhing. But soon there was something 
lacking. I wanted my husband! But het was 
always too busy. Then I tried staying at home 
to be with him — the same busy story. I tried aw- 
fully hard, true I did. Peg!” 

Anne’s head drooped low on her bosom with the 
shame of the story she was unfolding. 

“Six weeks ago, during the first week of Novem- 
ber. Oh ! I was so tired of it all, so lonely ! The 
man — will never tell his name — ’phoned he had 
missed me and the bunch were anxious that I join 
them for dinner. I refused. Somehow I didn’t 
want to see them; I felt they were not my friends. 
After he was sure I would not change my mind, 
he insisted that I dine with him in a quiet place. 

“Well, that was the beginning. After that, we 
went often for long drives. One afternoon we 


174 


PEGGY KIP 


drove far up the country. At a road house that 
sat back in a grove of tall trees, we stopped. I 
had never been there before. The proprietor 
greeted us cordially. 

“ ‘An old friend of mine,’ said my companion. 
“ ‘I want a dining room. Bill — a private affair — 
that isn’t filled with jazz!’ 

“In a room overlooking the Hudson, waiters 
served us. After cotfee and liquors we were left 
alone. Now we could talk without fear of being 
heard. Peggy, he told me Dick had a mistress! 
Said he was dining with her at that time ! I tried 
not to believe him. I resented his attitude — ex- 
plained that my husband was very ambitious and 
his heart and soul were in his efforts to help the 
children who are unable to obtain relief. I spoke 
more of Dick’s work than I ever had, and was 
proud to defend him ! 

“At home once more, waiting for Dick — dinner 
alone — ^night after night I sat waiting, in hopes 
that he would dispell all the terrible things that 
were burning my brain and breaking my heart ! 

“Dick grew colder — I saw him less. ’Ere I 
knew it, my whole nature was at war! Every- 
where I went pitying eyes followed me — the neg- 
lected wife! 


PEGGY KIP 


175 


“Yes, I drank, drank to forget, to give me cour- 
age to go on with it all ! 

“Then something in me seemed to turn — ^the 
neglect of my husband was more than I could 
stand! All that had been love was hate — hate, 
I tell you! 

“Needless to say the man was always there to 
cheer me — help me through hours of distress. As 
suddenly as hate had taken possession of me, I 
was lifted into a state of delirium — passion and 
desire ! I loved as madly as I had determined to 
hate! The climax of this terrible infatuation 
came the day before I wrote you to come to me. 

“After I had been unusually unhappy and 
lonely, I dranli several highballs. Then I tele- 
phoned the man to meet me at the Forty-fourth 
street vestibule of the Astor. We would motor up 
the country. Needless to tell, he was waiting. 
On, on, we road, both of us busy witli our thoughts. 
Just the nearness of him made me dizzy with hap- 
piness. 

“We stopped at an old discarded mansion. Very 
few people know of this place, but there are good 
cooks and plenty to drink. In the splendid old- 
fashioned room I walked a fly into the spider’s 
web. 

‘ ‘ This cannot go on indefinitely. He held me in 


176 


PEGGY KIP 


his arms. After all, no matter how polished, the 
real man, the primitive man must show himself ! 
I was Ms woman! It was the beginning and the 
end of all things. By all the rights and laws of 
nature, I belonged to him! Peggy, I don’t know 
how — ^there was a breathless instant of uncer- 
tainty — a tremulous pause, in which the world 
spun dizzily about me! His mouth was against 
mine! I drank in his kisses with abandon that 
brought the realization that I loved him — no mat- 
ter if the whole world was lost ! 

“When the full purport came upon me, I was 
clad only in a silken kimono, upon a luxurious 
daybed! A stifling odor of Japanese incense 
filled the room. He was kneeling beside me, his 
arms around me, saying: ‘You are mine — mine, 
understand! You belong to me — every bit of 
you! 

“Hours passed. We floated in ecstasies of 
love ; love hallowed all. There was no coarseness 
in our love, only love found expression, and in 
the expression found joy. Nothing in this grey 
old world mattered ! 

“Then — ^back to my hateful home — ^in my room 
alone I was forced to remember and count the 
hours I had missed! I could not forget. What 
is memory? It is only a load we carry to weigh 



Now, Peggy, you know me as I am; what are you going 
to do?” Anne^s head dropped low on her bosom with the shame 
of the story she had told* 




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PEGGY KIP 


177 


Tis down and make our days miserable and our 
nights hideous! 

“Now, Peggy, you know all — you know me as 
I am! What are you going to dof” 

Folding the sobbing creature to her heart, 
Peggy whispered: 

“ ‘Judge not, lest ye be judged.’ ‘Let him that 
is without sin among you cast the first stone.’ 
And, remember, sin is in thoughts as well as in 
actsi Also, there is the sin of omission. 

“Some of the most terrible and hideous crimes 
have been proven to be generated in the minds of 
strong men and sent by thought waves into the 
winds of weaker individuals, until the crime com- 
mitted is the act of one but the plcin and desire 
of the stronger mind! 

“Science has been keen in teaching us the 
psychology of thought influences, and how to pro- 
tect ourselves from them!” 

Clasped in close embrace, these two women to 
whom fate had dealt a cruel lesson, sat far into 
the night. 

Anne was only a girl dragged along by a chain 
of unfortunate events. Life had not time to edu- 
cate. Fate set herself to encourage the selfish 
ego. The weakest side of her nature was ever 
ready for impression. Way deep in her soul was 


178 


PEGGY KIP 


a spark of genuine good. A kind, strong hand 
was needed to help her over the dangerous places. 

From out the darkness of the night, Anne’s 
spirit rose to meet the dawning of the future. 
The repression of weeks and months had reached 
its climax. Kind indulgence had accomplished 
more than hard fault-finding and condemnation 
could ever do. 

“Is there no recompense for my dead happi- 
ness — my lost illusions? I used to he full of 
laughter. I was the gayest, merriest girl ! Glad- 
ness was stifled in me long ago. I used to be 
proud! My pride has been stung and crushed. 
My very sense of decency has been trampled 
under foot! Help me, Peggy! Don’t let me go 
deeper into the mire! Hold on to me, dear!” 

With her great resolve to stand the acid test 
of friendship, Peggy unfolded her plans to 
Anne. 

“Every man wants Ihe thing he has lost!” she 
began. “So dear, your brain must register — 
beauty and intellect must win! I know you love 
Dick. It was only pique and retaliation for the 
neglect you felt that led you blindly into the 
street of regret. You were far too young and 
knew none of the pitfalls that are constantly be- 
fore beautiful and wealthy women who are left 


PEGGY KIP 


179 


much alone. It takes a strong head to cope with 
idle wealth’s mad throng! 

“Now dear, together, you cmd I will begin all 
over! This week with the kiddies” — seeing her 
frown — 

“Now, dear, you must not hold it against them, 
that Dick has not treated you fairly! Run off to 
bed; get a good rest. Remember, we are break- 
fasting at the club! Keep the wrinkles away! 
A great deal can be accomplished with beauty! 
After this week every thought will be to bring 
Dick to the full realization of his part in the 
troubled situation — or, better still — ^we will think 
only of your happiness!” 

A tender, good-night kiss, and Anne wearily 
climbed the stairs to her room. 

Marie was dozing in her chair ; the magazine she 
had been reading dropped to the floor. 

“Oh, Madame! I fell asleep!” 

“Why on earth did you wait up so late, Marie? 
I can do all the unhooking” (Evidently some of 
Peggy’s kindness had lodged in a remote corner 
of her heart). “You see, Marie, Dame Fashion 
has been very thoughtful this season. There are 
few gowns that one needs assistance in getting 
into or out of.” 

With nimble fingers Marie had the filmy gown 


180 


PEGGY KIP 


off and on its perfumed hanger. Dainty lingerie 
•was carefully folded — the exquisite neatness of 
everything, the quiet elegance of the room — im- 
pressed Anne. 

A derisive smile curled Anne’s lips as ■with a 
hateful shrug she recalled the untidy conglom- 
eration of souvenirs of Broadway restaurants and 
Road houses — the discarded and soiled finery that 
jammed the closets and drawers of her dressers 
at home ; the glaring lights and gaudy furnishings 
of the place she called home. It all seemed a 
dream. She wondered how long it was since she 
joined that everlasting throng! 

Marie tucked the down comfort about the sides 
of the bed, turned out the lights, and said : 

“I hope you rest well, Madame.” The door 
closed softly. 

Anne lay staring into darkness. Her eyes re- 
fused to close. Restless and miserable she faced 
life. Memory seethed in her burning brain. Now 
she saw the end of it all! 

Drowsiness overcame her. A dreamless col- 
lapse — a state of exhaustion — relaxed muscles. 
Regular breathing soon showed that Anne slept. 
Sleep — the boon for all suffering, for all pain. 

Do-wnstairs where Anne had left her, Peggy, 


PEGGY KIP 


181 


amid the wreckage of many thoughts and dreams 
— ^her brain in a mad whirl — seemed to huddle like 
a stunned thing. Her hands trembled — but the 
loyalty she vowed never wavered — there would be 
some way! 


CHAPTER XI 


The days and weeks passed quickly. Christmas ! 
Even the kiddies had stood in open-eyed wonder at 
the tree, with its wonderful lights and shining or- 
naments. 

Old Santa, with long, white beard and a well- 
filled pack on his back, bounded through the win- 
dow and distributed his toys to the little ones, 
who fairly screamed their delight. Paul Han^^ey 
was the dancing, laughing, good-natured Santa, 
who enjoyed the part he was playing. 

The story books that Pete was anxious to have 
were now in his possession, and he was promising 
to “read ’em to de odder kids.” 

The kiddies were safe back in their hospital 
home and Peggy had promised them another visit 
in the spring, when the boats would be running, 
and they could spend hours on the Sound. 

It was during these days with Peggy that Anne 
learned she was to become a mother. A terrible 
hatred welled up in her heart for the man who had 
betrayed her — then gone on his way in silence. 
She had neither heard from him nor seen him 


182 


PEGGY KIP 


183 


since the hateful afternoon. The tragedy of love ! 

“Perhaps he was now wooing and luring some 
other misguided creature to misery — perhaps 
death!” thought Anne. “It may be he had left 
the city !” She neither knew nor cared. 

The terrible sickness and over-powering agony 
of mind were telling plainly. Anne could no 
longer hide the truth. Shyly she whispered the 
secret to Peggy. For a long while neither spoke, 
but each rested content in the realization of the 
other’s love and confidence. 

Suddenly to Peggy Anne was a new being! 
She was chosen to wear the crown of motherhood ! 
She must avoid all dangers — she must be tenderly 
eared for. 

The cheering, happy words that crowded 
Peggy’s heart! She would gladly change places 
— even the pain had no terror. 

Day after day they planned. It was decided 
that Anne was to stay at Dreamland, “unless Dick 
wants you to come back,” added Peggy. 

Anne now knew real friendship. Tenderness 
and care were heaped upon her. As she sat in the 
sun parlor, watching Peggy, something of the 
brevity of life and the immensity of friendship 
shadowed forth, casting a halo over Peggy’s 
golden head. 


184 


PEGGY KIP 


Marie had brought the mail. 

“My dear, a letter from Dick” said Peggy, 
handing a bulky envelope to Anne. 

Peggy bit her lips to keep back the words she 
would love to say. The sarcasm was plainly be- 
tween each line of the letter. He thanked her in 
stilted tones for her “kindness to Mrs. Winston.” 

Noting the drawn whiteness of Anne’s face, 
Peggy asked, “What is it dear?” 

Without a word, Anne passed the letter, and 
sat with clasped hands and bowed head, while 
Peggy read the legally worded document from 
J. Warden Gattle, the most noted divorce special- 
ist in New York City, setting forth the grounds 
upon which his client expected freedom. 

Not one charge could Anne deny! 

In a few months Dick would he free, while she 
would be facing motherhood, without means to 
rear the unwelcome babe, for Dr. Winston’s gen- 
erosity depended entirely upon Anne Winston’s 
attitude. 

Anne must submit to any arrangement Dick 
made. She could not be dragged mercilessly 
through the divorce court of New York, with yel- 
low journal reporters glaring at her, gloating over 
the downfall of another woman! Choice bits of 
news to feed their anxious scandal-loving readers 


PEGGY KIP 


185 


— while men maneuvered and paid in dollars — 
and went free ! 

“ No ! No ! ” she screamed. ‘ ‘ Death a thousand 
times!” 

Anne rocked herself to and fro in abject misery. 
The folly of dissipation and the fruits of sin were 
burning and tearing her heart and brain. 

After two days of weary agony and racking 
pain, trying to summon courage to fight — not for 
herself but for the child — with stoic quietness she 
announced — 

“There is no defense!” 

J. Warden Gattle, attorney, was well-known in 
fashionable but discontented circles. His advice 
was fabulously rewarded. When his card was 
brought to Mrs. Winston, she knew she faced the 
climax. 

Peggy sat with Anne as they both listened to 
the man of law, as he set forth, in no pleasant 
terms, the list of his client’s grievances! Each 
enumeration seemed to strike chill to the fast beat- 
ing heart of the bowed figure. 

Then, as he told of the proposed settlement, the 
attorney added, clearing his throat, 

“1 think it most generous, indeed! Dr. Winston 
is desirous of no undue notoriety.” 


186 


PEGGY KIP 


The papers spread before her seemed to Anne 
as living, breathing reptiles, that were slowly 
gnawing her very sonl. She was striving with all 
her might to appear interested in all that was 
taking place. But the only feeling was feml 
She was on the verge of collapse. 

The assuring presence of Peggy brought Anne 
back to the business in hand. The details were all 
over in two hours. The poor humiliated creature 
had heard very little, and paid no attention to 
the high flown legal language calculated to im- 
press upon her the necessity of the absolute 
divorce! 

Peggy drew the curtains to keep the light from 
the room where Anne was fighting for life. It 
was six months since the newspapers had given 
much space in glaring headlines to the divorce of 
a “prominent young physician and his very beau- 
tiful wife!” 

“Town Talk” more brave, and catering to the 
gossip of the “Smart Set,” hinted openly at 
nightly debauches — and the fascination for a cer- 
tain club man who seemed to have dropped out 
of things. 

Like all exciting events, the Winston divorce 
was a nine days ’ wonder. 


PEGGY KIP 


187 


Dr. Winston had gone abroad to continue his 
studies of joint disease of cripple children. 

An outsider, reading of the case, would at once 
decide that the young doctor certainly was badly 
treated and believed him the most devoted of hus- 
bands, who had allowed his wife entirely too much 
money and freedom. 

The tiny bundle of wrinkles and clinched fists 
and lusty lungs proclaimed to the waiting ones 
that a new-born child was fighting for her chance. 

Nurses and doctors were hovering about the 
mother. The spark of life was gradually flicker- 
ing. 

Outside the sick room, close to the door, Peggy 
waited with her two faithful friends, whom she 
had marshalled as her maids in the recreation of 
Anne. The white faces of the men told plainly of 
the grief they made no etfort to hide. 

The door opened. The nurse motioned) for 
Peggy to enter. Kneeling by the bed she listened 
to the dying woman, begging for the future of lier 
child. 

“Yes, Anne, I do promise. She shall be my 
own — ^my baby Anne, my hope for happiness.” 

A marvelous tenderness spread over the face 


188 


PEGGY KIP 


of the woman so near death — the tenderness of 
motherhood. 

“You will — tell her — sometime — I was her — ” 

The faint breathing could hardly be seen. A 
quiver of the lids — one short gasp — and the nurse 
folded the white hands. She drew the sheet over 
the face. 

Anne could suffer no more. She had crossed 
the dark river. If one could judge by the sweet- 
ness of her smile, she had found peace. All the 
mistakes had been atoned for with her life — 
she had paid! 

Funeral arrangements were made ; a few friends 
followed the casket to its resting place. 

Peggy, dry-eyed, watched as the flowers were 
piled upon the grave. Bob Stanley told her of 
his hopes. 

“I loved the little woman,” he said, sorrow- 
fully. “She was good inside and out. I was only 
waiting for her to regain her health and strength 
to ask her to be my wife. I was filled with plans 
for Anne and the baby.^’ 

Two weeks from the day Anne was buried, 
Peggy had succeeded in having all the legal details 
attended to that were necessary for the adoption 
of the child. 


PEGGY KIP 


189 


On Sunday there were several intimate friends 
invited to the baptism. Bob Stanley and Paul 
Harvey were sponsors. The old priest asked the 
name of the child. 

“Anne Kip Hazzard,” came the answer from 
the new mother, who held out her arms to take 
the baby to her heart, where it would dwell for- 
ever, shielded from all care. 

Little Anne smiled and gurgled her way into the 
hearts of the whole household. 

A nursery, fully equipped, was made of the room 
adjoining Peggy’s suite. Nothing was spared for 
the health and joy of this new treasure. 

After the excitement was over, quiet reigned 
once more at Dreamland, which was broken only 
by the visits of old and new friends, who found a 
new radiance in the mistress of the splendid 
estate. 

All the listless apathy, all the bored look that 
so many wealthy have, or cultivate, was gone from 
Peggy, She was looking out upon life with a 
promise — a promise given to a dying mother. 
There was no bitterness in her soul — only love 
and tenderness. 

In a carefully worded letter, she had sent Dick 
an account of Anne’s death, failing to tell him 


190 


PEGGY KIP 


that the child lived. She knew that would have 
been Anne’s wish. In a plain envelope she en- 
closed her letter, and addressed it to his club in 
New York, asking that the letter please be for- 
warded to Dr. Eichard Winston, as it was most 
important. 

New life, new energy filled all her days. Life 
was one long happy day at Dreamland, where the 
baby was loved for the joy she had brought to the 
woman they all loved, whose mother instinct had 
awakened at the sight of the helpless children she 
had visited. And now this wonderful instinct was 
kept alive by the watching, waiting vigilance given' 
to little Anne. At the first touch of baby hands, 
the wealth of Peggy’s heart poured out to the 
motherless one. 

It is not the wealth of the world that makes 
happiness and lightens burdens; it is the tender 
acts of kindness, lovingly bestowed — the precious 
words of love spoken 'with each passing day. 

The fire in the flint burns only by friction. The 
latent spark in the human heart must have the 
dynamo of the will to make it sparkle and come 
forth in marvelous glory. The uplift of human- 
ity comes through the struggle "with self. 

Peggy had triumphed. Her crown of glory 


PEGGY KIP 


191 


was tlie responsibility of motherhood! God had 
answered her prayer! 

Humming a lullaby with Baby Anne clasped to 
her heart, Pteggy gazed far out over the Sound, 
watching the white sails flutter in the breeze. Her 
mind strayed into serious channels — ^birth and 
death — the coming and going of souls, judgment 
and hereafter. 

Pressing her lips to the tiny hand held in hers, 
Peggy spoke solemnly, trying to impress her 
solution of the great problem forcibly upon her- 
self. 

“We do not know why we come, or where we 
go. We only know that we come, and that, 
eventually, we go. I do not think any one of us, 
nor any number of us, have a right to say what 
the rest of us shall believe. I do not think of 
heaven as a place of judgment, but as a place 
of pardon and love.” 

Mammy Jane came for the baby. 

“La! La! Honey! You is gwine to spile dat 
chile, rocking her ter sleep ebry night. Gib her 
ter me. Yer dinner is waitin’. Thomas says you 
mos’ forgits ter eat nursin’ dat chile.” 

Gently Mammy Jane took the sleeping infant. 


192 


PEGGY KIP 


“I’se gwine ter take her up to de nursery. My, 
how she do grow!” 

The old soul climbed slowly up the stairs, her 
fat body keeping time to the southern melody she 
was humming. 

With a smile of devotion, Peggy watched her 
“Black Ma mm y.” She knew that the old woman 
was living over again the days when she herself 
was being rocked and sung to. 

It is the wonder of ages what a child can com- 
pensate a woman for. From the ashes of bit- 
terness, inspiration had arisen. Peggy had some- 
thing in the soul of her. From disappointed, sel- 
fish youth, she was now a woman, splendid in 
heart, courageous and noble in deeds of charity, 
going deep into the needs of those who made 
appeals for help. 

The name of Mrs. John Hazzard was hailed 
with praise wherever mentioned. 

Dreamland was known as the place of kind, 
helping council. Even those who had given little 
thought to unfortunates were becoming known by 
generous deeds. The beautiful mistress of 
Dreamland shed an influence ove'r tlie friends 
gathered in her lovely home, that went with them, 
helping to keep cheer among less fortunate be- 
ings — even wondering how it was that they had 


PEGGY KIP 


193 


forgotten to do something to brighten the days 
of others. 

The peace and understanding in her eyes, the 
after-glow of love and womanly power in her 
face, gave to Peggy Hazzard a place of her own. 
She shone a splendid, priceless jewel in a glorious 
setting! She was passionately a mother, poised, 
frank, ready to smile on life! 


CHAPTER Xn 


It was early spring. Already the ice had 
thawed. The mountain streams were rippling 
quietly; flowers were peeping out of rock crev- 
ices. The cool winds gave the leafing trees a rest- 
less shiver. 

As every year must have its spring, so every 
spring must have its love. 

The yeiars had gone slowly to Dr. Richard 
Winston, who had run away from love. But it 
was here — ^it was everywhere. Here about him, 
more throbbingly insistent than ever, was love. 
He had thought to exile it from his isolated king- 
dom. Incompleteness had settled upon his life. 
The mating call of the birds, the beasts he heard. 
Even the trees had heard the cry. 

Spring and love filled the air. The heart of 
the young doctor sent out the same cry and the 
wind howled in derision, for there was no mate ! 

One month after his divorce Dr. Winston sailed 
for foreign lands, traveling constantly for two 
years. Then to Paris he made his way, and there 
established a hospital for children. He worked 

194 


PEGGY KIP 


195 


arduously, building up standards of excellence 
for medical men and nurses. His fame was 
spreading far and near, and wealth was accumu- 
lating. 

By hard work the noble doctor endeavored to 
drive all thoughts of his past from him. Grad- 
ually he sapped the strength of indomitable will. 

After weeks spent with several patients who 
needed his special care — the break came. Dr. 
Winston must leave the crowded city. Some- 
where in Southern France he would upbuild his 
health. Two wedks he spent wandering from 
one place to another. His restless spirit refused 
to settle calmly down and wait for air and sun- 
shine, with plenty of good wholesome food and 
rest, to make him strong. 

Finally a quiet little village, with quaint, old- 
fashioned hoiusesi, churches with steeples, and 
bells solemnly pealing out to the wayfarer, at- 
tracted Dr. Winston to its homeyness. He pre- 
vailed upon a good-natured farmer to take him 
in. The plain neatness of the room, the well- 
cooked food and kind consideration of the good 
man and his wife seemed to fill all the require- 
ments for a steady recovery. Here for days he 
sat in the sunshine, traveling the road of yester- 


196 


PEGGY KIP 


day — early poverty, hard work, ambition to excel, 
sudden acquisition of wealth, the short glamor — 
the dullness of it all! 

Tonight the call of nature filled the soul of Dr. 
Winston — the call of nature to its mate. The 
hard judgment of youth loses some of the sting 
after ten years. He could only remember that 
Anne stood between him and the woman he loved 
— ^he whispered her name. Peggy was planted in 
his heart. He could almost feel her answer to 
his call — ^vibrate through the trees. He had her 
letter telling of Anne’s death. Since living in 
Paris he had avoided all Americans, he had no 
desire to keep up any knowledge of things in the 
States. He was far from those who knew his 
story. He hoped that he was out of their lives, 
as he tried to put them out of his. 

Wending his way hack to the cottage. Dr. Win- 
ston saw an automobile drive up in front of it, 
with two men jesticulating madly, trying to make 
themselves understood. He saw at once that they 
were Americans. Hurrying to their aid, to the 
great delight of the tourists, he explained to the 
farmer that the gentlemen wanted food and lodg- 
ing for the night. 

Arrangements were made, and the men sitting 
together in the huge living room, talked of 
America. Dick was an interested listener, as the 


PEGGY KIP 


197 


men told of the -wondierfiil progress made in his 
native land. A hungering anxiety rose in his 
heart to ask personal questions of old friends. 
He wanted more than anything else to ask of 
these “young New Yorkers” who were “Seeing 
Europe” about Dreamland — the wonderful estate 
of John Hazzard — if his widow still lived there, 
had she married again? A thousand things 
crowded for expression, yet he smothered the 
flame. 

A /gnawing homesickness that tore his heart 
had taken possession of Dick Winston. That 
night in his bed sleep was long coming to relieve 
him. Then in dreams he was back in his old 
home. But no dreams of the woman he loved; 
only the mistakes of his youth could his brain, in 
its subconscious state, live over. 

After a hearty breakfast, the young chaps were 
preparing to continue their sightseeing. Points 
of interest were called to their attention. Their 
bags were all packed, everything was in readiness. 
Dick stood by the car talking. A newspaper 
pushed partly xmder the seat caught his eye. 

“Oh! My dear chaps! Be kind enough if you 
have read the paper, leave it with me. No mat- 
ter how old, I shall enjoy it. Been cut off here 
for sometime.” 


198 


PEGGY KIP 


Waving his hands as the car moved away, he 
sang out : 

“I may see you some day in New York!” 

Dick couldn’t explain why, hut there were ele- 
ments of nature at war in his soul. The old 
scenes, old faces, were constantly before him. 

With “The New York World” in his hand, 
Dick seemed more desirous than ever to be once 
again with those old friends. In a comfortable 
chair in the living room he buried himself in “ The 
World.” Every column was scanned minutely. 
“Society news” was read with an eagerness he 
would have laughed at in another. 

“Mrs. John Hazzard Entertains for Her 
Daughter, Anne Kip Hazzard.” 

With an exclamation of great surprise, Dick 
read the heading aloud. “Surely there is a mis- 
take — she has no child,” he thought. 

Reading the article carefully, almost aloud, he 
pronounced the words that were turning his 
blood to fire: 

“Anne Kip Hazzard celebrates her tenth birth- 
day at Dreamland, the country estate of her 
mother, Mrs. John Hazzard.” 

The names of the guests were feverishly gone 
over; most of them were familiar. Children of 
men and women he knew, some whose homes had 
been cordially opened to him. These children 


PEGGY KIP 


199 


were early starting out upon their social cam- 
paign as beaux and belles of New York’s most 
exclusive Smart Set. 

After an bour spent in trying to figure out tbe 
problem of tbe little daughter, Dick finally 
laughed. His merriment convulsed bim^ — a sud- 
den confirmation. 

“She has adopted an orphan! Peggy is just 
the woman to grow weary of her lonebness — ^ber 
mother heart has listened to the call. I hope she 
looked well into the parents — inheritcmce is a 
great law! A great deal is in environment, hut 
what’s in the blood is born ‘even to the third and 
fourth generation.’ ” 

The silence of retro'spection fell upon Dick 
Winston. 

“lam going to write to you, Peggy,” he almost 
whispered. “I wonder if you will care — I won- 
der if you ever cared!” 

The cun climbed higher over the mountain 
peaks. The cows leisurely strayed farther from 
home, nibbling at the tufts of green here and 
there. A bell tinkled in the distance, leading the 
way to the one horse the farmer owned. 

The quietness of this coimtry life impressed 
the lonely man, his heart throbbed painfully. A 
restlessness possessed him — he must go back to 


200 


PEGGY KIP 


Paris — get into harness. Work is a compelling 
force. “Drive yourself and try to forget” had 
been Dick’s slogan for ten years — ^years in which 
he had accomplished great good and accumulated 
much wealth that aided him in his various under- 
takings. His mind was firmly made up — ^his va- 
cation must end. 

The kind peasant folk were sorry to have “the 
good man” (as they called him) leave. The old 
woman who had been so considerate of his com- 
fort assured him that they would always be 
pleased if he came many times. 

The bills that Dick gave in payment for his 
board were numerous, and amounted to a sum 
that surpassed anything the good woman asked 
for, or could ever expect. She was overcome. 
Her words of thanks were profuse. 

“God bless the good man,” she repeated in the 
few words of English that she had learned from 
an occasional tourist. 

No need to say the old couple missed the eve- 
nings spent listening to stories of travel as Dick 
smoked his pipe and made himself as agreeable 
as his mood allowed. The arrangement^ to leave 
for Paris had caused a delay in writing the 
letter to Peggy. 

“I will write it as soon as I get to my rooms,” 
Dick promised himself. 


PEGGY KIP 


201 


“Man proposes, but God and fate dispose.” 

Arriving in Paris, full of anticipation for his 
new work. Dr. Winston found an epidemic of 
cholera. All his knowledge of medicine and dis- 
ease were taxed night and day. He went from 
one sufferer to another, alleviating pain and giv- 
ing cheer to the stricken ones. 

For weeks Dick had no thought of self — ^he was 
lost to all things save the work at hand. 

The epidemic was about spent. New cases 
were few. Without warning, the terrible malady 
attacked the brain of Dick Winston. Racking, 
pains came over his entire body. His own knowl- 
edge of the disease told him he was a mctim — 
stricken with it in its worst form. 

For weeks, between life and death, Dick fought 
with all the will that had helped him oyer bar- 
riers, that had brought success and honor to him. 
In his delirium he was a boy again, in his old 
Virginia home. Anne played with him ; she must 
be flirting with the older boys — ^his jealousy and 
heartaches were voiced incoherently— he would 
go away. 

Then the nurse heard another name — “Peggy, 
with pigtail plaits.” A black Mammy was always 
on hand; happy chatter, merriment — ^youth, glad 
peals of laughter would fill the room. 

The nurse held the emaciated hand and let the 


202 


PEGGY KIP 


wandering mind spend itself in thoughts of by- 
gone days. Suddenly curses and biting bits of 
sarcasm cut the air. Dick raved in mad delirium 
at the woman who had disgraced and ruined his 
life. For days he mumbled of the lights, gay 
parties, road houses, and of the men who lure 
women to ruin and destruction — ^wolves of the 
flame. When all hope for his recovery seemed 
to pass, a quiet sleep overcame him — exhaustion, 
the nurses said. 

Something — ages older and a million times 
stronger than you or I — contradicted Dick’s illu- 
sions. The smile of dawning reason and under- 
standing spread over his face. A kindly light 
in his eyes showed that he had caught hold of 
the frail boat and would hold on safely to the end 
of its rough journey. The ever-watchful nurse 
sat near. She saw the lips move. Leaning down 
to catch the words, she listened: 

“I am born again. I belong to the dawning 
tomorrow. Remember that I am born of the dead 
yesterday. From the ashes of repentance I will 
rise and meet the dawning of a new day — a new 
life!” 

The trembling eyelids, the long lashes wet with 
unshed tears, gave evidence of the birth of a new 
soul — a soul that had gone through the fiery fur- 
nace yet come forth unscathed — ready to take 


PEGGY KIP 


203 


up the burden of life anew — with new under- 
standing — give and forgive! 

Fearing the results of any effort toward con- 
versation by the patient, the nurse urged Dick 
to be quiet. She smiled indulgently at his weak- 
ness. She knew from experience that in the 
hours of severe illness the human mind is more 
in the past than in the future. She listened to 
many secrets of the heart unfolded during the long 
hours — flighty mentality caused by ravages of 
disease. She knew that the Doctor had lived over 
all the years of youthful mistakes, counting each 
horror. Now, that his mind was at ease and 
asleep, he was partaking of the best medicine 
known for a worn-out body; it would help him to 
gain his wasted strength. 

The visiting physician gave hope for Dick’s 
final recovery, if no new developments of a se- 
rious nature took place. 

Weeks went by very slowly; convalescence 
gradually made itself known. A hearty appe- 
tite, anxiety to go back to the hospital, a lively 
interest in the daily affairs — all took firm hold of 
Dick. 

His first day to visit “his little ones” was a 
wonderful day for Dick — a day of pleasure and 
pain. He missed many little faces he had grown 
to love. But the welcome by those who had 


204 


PEGGY KIP 


waited each day for news of their good doctor, 
warmed his heart to humanity, and his natural in- 
stinct to help the little ones grew stronger. 

Summer and winter went, as the seasons do to 
men busy with the affairs of life in which the 
healing and mending of broken bodies is con- 
cerned. 

So long had Dick’s illness kept him from 
the work to which his life was dedicated that 
days and nights were now spent making new 
plans and working out old ones. 

Stopping at a fashionable hotel, to call upon a 
gentleman in regard to his new patent knee 
brace, Dick was attracted to the news stand by 
a magazine cover — “Vogue” — an American 
publication. 

While waiting for his card to be sent to the 
room, he purchased several papers and the maga- 
zine. 

The page came back, saying: “The gentleman 
is out; I have paged the smoking room.” 

Outside Dick waited on the sidewalk for his 
car. The cover design on the magazine, “The 
Long Island Hunt Club,” was very familiar to 
him. Seating himself in the car, and giving in- 
structions to drive home, he casually began turn- 


PEGGY KIP 


205 


ing the pages of the magazine. He found his 
eyes glued to the picture before him. 

“Mrs. John Hazzard and daughter, Anne.” 

Peggy and her daughter, Anne! 

The fashionable Fifth Avenue photographer, 
whose name was a well-remembered one, his art 
recognized the world over, had given the envious 
matrons a thrill as they saw the splendid features 
produced and knew that age had passed this 
beauty by. 

Peggy, with all the pride of race, in an evening 
gown, soft dining material, bare neck and arms, 
her hair piled in soft wavy mounds! How well 
Dick remembered the individual hair dress — an 
arrangement that brought all the beauty of the 
glorious golden brown tresses in full play, 
showing woman’s crowning glory — her hair! 

Seated at Peggy’s feet, looking up in adoration 
into the face of her mother, the beautiful girl of 
twelve, hair as dark as night — Dick read the patri- 
cian features one by one, until he felt sure there 
was no ordinary blood flowing in the veins of the 
child who called Peggy mother. 

At home, Dick’s dinner was served in silence. 
The man servant had placed brandy and cigars on 
the table in the library. The reading lamp was 
adjusted, the newspapers lay opened. 


206 


PEGGY KIP 


“Any order, sir?” 

“No, Jenkins, you may go.” 

The pages tom from the magazine, Dick sat 
quietly studying the beloved features. No tears 
of pain or suffering were there — only the open 
sweetness of a good woman. 

“Oh! Peggy, my love! Our lives are moving 
toward the twilight, during which no man, no 
matter how self-sufficient, likes to be alone ! ’ ’ 

Walking the floor in a vain effort to quiet the 
storm within his surging brain, Dick asked, in a 
voice stem in its intensity : 

“Must I, after all these years?” 

Tense he stood, listening, expectant. He knew 
that by some occult sign there would be an answer 
by the impression received from the unknown 
source. He would order his life. He would fol- 
low the spirit control. No longer would he fight 
against all that was best in him. A calmness 
such as he had not known for years came upon 
him. Seating himself, his hand took the pen, 
and his mind followed the words he saw written : 

“Peggy, you will be startled at hearing so un- 
expectedly from me. I am as a voice from out 
of the past. I wonder how you will look, how you 
will feel ! Will you have to stop and try to remem- 
ber back through the years — ages it seems to me? 
It cannot be you have forgotten ; you must remem- 


PEGGY KIP 


207 


ber even tonight in your home! There must be 
some subtle feeling that brings me close to you! 

“The tiny line so fine that links the past with 
the now — must hold your brain and echo in your 
heart, dear, responsive to my call, as I am remem- 
bering and counting every detail of the days that 
•were. They rise before me as I -write ! Or, some 
force that I cannot control compels my pen to 
form these lines. 

“It must be strange to you, dear, after a silence 
so long, so complete! It has been like death! 
Something has brought it all back to me — ^resur- 
rected memories that I have tried to keep buried ! 

Today I bought an American magazine — ^the 
first one since I sailed from the harbor of New 
York — where I vowed to be dead forever! 
‘Vogue’ was the magazine. Your picture is be- 
fore me — ^you and your child. I did not have to 
read your name — ^your face is as clearly graven 
upon my heart as the artist has engraved you 
upon the white pages ! My heart leaps and 
bounds ! My vision is blurred by tears I do not 
wish to restrain! Your eyes look calmly, fear- 
lessly upon the world — the look of a woman who 
has never been ashamed — ^who is protected and 
loved — ^who has never been taught to be afraid ! 

‘ ‘ The little girl leaning confidently against your 
knee, her dark hair, glorious eyes, tells the trutii 


208 


PEGGY KIP 


of your devotion, a mother light answers her dot- 
ing eyes! I always knew yon were big in yonr 
thoughts, so I know you have snatched some babe 
from the sea of adversity, have taken her for your 
own, reared her in the tenderness of your love ! 

“Years have dealt kindly with you; there is no 
sign or trace of the years between. Your eyes 
bore through me as I sit here, convicted in my lone- 
liness. We may leave the burning forest, but the 
scorched muscles burn at times whenever bared 
to the heat. 

“Peggy, I acknowledge the weakness of man, 
when I say I love you! I have loved you since 
the day I saw you gazing across the casket of your 
aunt — a child with wondering eyes — ^looking out 
of a prison, longing to fly! I, a boy, with rest- 
less, ambitious soul — ^need I go into the heart of 
those years between? My unhappy mistake and 
Anne’s? 

‘ ‘ She was a fine girl, but a failure as a woman ! 
Her tastes and mine were totally dissimilar. Two 
weeks after the wedding day, I wondered why she 
married me ! I hope you are not shocked. I only 
smiled, consoling myself with the thought, ‘Most 
married men think the same thing and wonder why 
it all happened. ’ 

“Prom discontent to absolute miseiy we drifted. 
Anne was never interested in my work; in fact. 


PEGGY KIP 


209 


it bored her! Nonchalance about what, to me, was 
the most important thing in the world, maddened 
and depressed me ! I tried to entertain her. New 
York beckoned to her unceasingly — gay places of 
the idle rich; licentious and bibulous gatherings 
were her undoing! 

“God knows I tried to check her — reasoned 
with her! I acknowledge, with a bowed head, 
that after I found you, I didn’t mind so much, 
for freedom might mean you! 

“You, dear, were bigger and stronger than I! 
You rose above all the temptation of love! Oh! 
how I live over the happy moments with you ! I 
can see you now with those poor little devils! 

“I am asking you again, Peggy dear, to be my 
wife! We would be perfect companions in our 
great work of humanity! With your love and 
your sympathy I could revolutionize science ! My 
years here in Paris have been spent in hard work 
and study! Things I dreamed of in the States 
have become realities ! Were you familiar with 
surgical instruments and medical devices, you 
would see in the journals successful use of the 
Winston brace, the Winston shoe for club feet! 
All these things had birth in my brain while a 
young student of surgery. 

“My hospital here is equipped with machinery 
mostly of my own designing. I have a free home 


210 


PEGGY KIP 


for cripple children. I have made few acquain- 
tances with Americans here, I am known as Dr. 
Winston Richards. 

“I wanted to be alone ! Now I am longing with 
all my heart to leave this place and come to yon ! 
God intended man and woman to be equally fair, 
that they should he perfectly mated, and so He 
gave man passion and woman compassion — each 
the basic ingredient of love. 

“Peggy, I think if men and women can not 
bring an equal part, they should at least bring an 
equal forgiveness. So, dear one, my past is past, 
my future is yours ! I beg you not to answer this 
hastily. Only think of the years we have lost, 
and the days we may spend in happiness — 
together! I implore you. Diek.’^ 

“Dr. Winston Richards, Rue Ballen 216, Paris, 

Prance.” 

After the lights were turned out the letter lay 
upon the table, stamped, ready for its journey. 
Dr. Richards lay upon the couch in happy com- 
munion with those loved ones gone before. The 
spirits of the departed were smiling a real wel- 
come of joy to the man who had mastered himself 
and followed the teachings of the heart, and the 
Great Master, who said: “Seek and ye shall find.” 

The Summer Colony on Long Island were grad- 
ually closing the handsome homes. Winter, with 


PEGGY KIP 


211 


the numerous social activties — theatres, grand 
opera and mid-winter dancing, were already the 
chief topic of conversation. 

New stars along Broadway were made over 
night. Never had musical comedy boasted so 
many beauties! The dancing craze was at its 
height. 

Lounge lizards were basking in the smiles of 
middle aged matrons who enjoyed a “trot” or a 
more dignified hesitation waltz. 

Dreamland was the scene of the closing fete. 
Peggy had loaned her house and grounds to the 
Red Cross. A Bazaar of Nations was being held 
for money to aid the soldiers of France and Eng- 
land who had gone so gallantly to the aid of little 
war-shocked Belgium. 

Never had the splendid estate been more beau- 
tiful! The grounds were a blaze of electricity. 
Gaily costumed men and women were to be found 
in every nook. 

The grand ball room was filled with dancers who 
were happy to give their money to so good a cause. 
Many young people came down from the city, 
anxious to have the opportunity to see the much- 
talked-of ballroom. 

In the conservatory, near a fountain, Peggy 


212 


PEGGY KIP 


Hazzard stood in her queenly robes, her hand- 
some beauty enhanced by the robe of silver cloth. 
The Hazzard jewels glistened upon the whiteness 
of her bosom. 

Smiling up into the face of her distinguished 
companion who had danced a dreamy waltz with 
her and led her out into the dim light to ask her 
the great question, Peggy replied : 

“Oh, Judge! You honor me! Indeed, I am 
proud to feel that you, of all men, should ask me 
to be your wife. But it must be the same answer 
I gave you before. I have long since put marriage 
away out of my dreams. Anne seems to take up 
my life, fill every place — there is no more I can 
ask. As my attorney, you are fully aware of all 
the facts in regard to her birth, therefore, I am 
sure you will understand perfectly. My life is 
dedicated to her. 

“These next years will be tender, impression- 
able ones. She must not have only the advantage 
of splendid teachers and masters, but she must 
have my companionship — my love. Of course, my 
own unhappy childhood and all the heartaches of 
dreary, lonely hours of pining for just a little 
mother-love and someone to care, has made me 
very thughtful in regard to Anne’s future. 

“I know you would be a father, hut a father 


PEGGY KIP 


213 


demands his share of the mother’s life. Mine is 
all given — my plans are made. 

“I am closing this place. My town house is 
ready; I expect to live there. Only a few weeks 
in the summer will see me here. I am not placing 
my daughter in a fashionable school to be educated 
with the idea of her market value — the marriage 
market will be a closed book to her. Her future 
is to be chosen for the heart, and not for the 
broker’s commissions.” 

Guests coming in search of their hostess put an 
end to the conversation which was bordering on 
intimate family hopes and disappointments. 

Good night from the departing revelers was 
said in many happy tones, and wishes for anotlier 
party soon were expressed. 

In her own room, Marie, still in her service, told 
Peggy of incidents of the afternoon and evening. 

“Miss Anne enjoyed the fete, too,” declared 
Marie. “She made the best Gypsy here, and sold 
more flowers than any of the young girls. She 
just has a way with her that no one dare refuse 
her ! I wish you could have seen her dancing up 
here, after she was undressed and ready for bed ! 
She called it the ‘nightie trot!’ Sure, she is full 
of spirits, and I hope she will always be happy. I 


214 


PEGGY KIP 


couldn’t stand to see Miss Anne sad. Thomas 
says : ‘Marie, maybe, had our little one lived, she 
would have been merry like Miss Anne.’ ” 

Peggy laughed happily, listening to Marie, as 
she put away the finery that had done duty. 

“Oh, Ma’m! I forgot! You have mail. I 
didn’t disturb you to bring it' while the company 
was here.” 

With a lighted cigarette, in lounging robe, com- 
fortable in her favorite chair, Peggy waited with 
happy anticipation for the letter. All her mail 
these days seemed filled with joy — ^the throb of 
friends. 

‘ ‘ Good night, Marie ; you need not wait longer. 
Open Anne ’s door into my bedroom. ’ ’ 

A foreign postmark! A shade of old memory 
passed over Peggy. Her breath nearly ceased! 

Dick! 

Trying to compose herself for the ordeal she 
almost dreaded, she read the letter over and over ! 
Way into dawn she still sat reading! 

It seemed to Peggy she had loved Dick all her 
life. She could not remember when the romance 
started, but it was way back in the misty yester- 
day ! She loved him with a love which only sur- 
passed that which she lavished upon his child — 
Anne ! 

His! Peggy firmly believed Anne to be his, 


PEGGY KIP 


215 


even though she believed every word poor un- 
happy Anne Winston had told her. Noting each 
day some features or some little trick of nature 
that belonged to Dick! 

Life had become enchanted! A sense of un- 
reality held full sway over her perception; she 
seemed to move and have her being in a new 
world ! 

The years had rolled away — ^Dick was waiting ! 
Peggy was alive to his call ! She knew there was 
no sleep for her — she must answer the letter now ! 
Why wait? There was only one word to say — 
‘‘Come!” 

While her spirit reveled in love, she wrote, just 
the kind of letter we, who know Peggy, knew she 
would write. 

“First of all, dear Dick, I must tell you — Anne 
belongs to you, too! She was the price her mother, 
Anne Carey, paid for her life ! 

“I can hear you say: ‘Why didn’t you tell me 
there was a baby living?’ I plead guilty of a 
grave offense, but I promised a dying, repentant 
woman to raise the child as my own. At that 
time your disappointment was keen. I feared you 
would take her — place her in unhappy surround- 
ings. Who could judge what a baby wanted more 
than I? Mother love, Dick, so I adopted Anne^ — 
she is mine — ours! 


216 


PEGGY KIP 


“Oh ! How you will love her ! I have loved her 
doubly for herself and because you are her father ! 
Now, don’t you think you have a wonderful home- 
coming awaiting you? 

“I trust you will not keep me waiting long. 
Need I tell you I love you and have loved you all 
these years — even when I sent you from me ? My 
great love for you was the test of my friendship 
for your poor misguided wife! I did not love 
you less, but I loved honor and justice more ! 

“Now the evening of our lives will be spent in 
sweet sympathy and loyal companionship ! I am 
waiting. 


“Peggy.” 


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